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CflMRIGHT DEPOSm 



BY 


THE 


SAME 


AUTHOR 


THE 


PERSONALITY AND MESSAGE 
OF THE PREACHER 

i2mo. Net, 35 cents 



SERVICE and PRAYERS 
For CHURCH and HOME 



Edited and Compiled by 
WILBUR PATTERSON THIRKIELD 

Bishop of the Methodist Episcopal Church 




THE METHODIST BOOK CONCERN 

NEW YORK CINCINNATI 



.** ' 



^v^ 



Copyright, 1918, by 
WILBUR PATTERSON THIRKIELD 



MAR 25 1918 
©GLA494231 



5? 



TO MARY 

"THRICE BLEST WHOSE LIVES ARE 
FAITHFUL PRAYERS." 



SERVICE AND PRAYERS 
FOR CHURCH AND HOME 

PAGE 

PREFACE 7 

PRAYERS ANCIENT AND MODERN 9 

Personal Intercessions '. 34 

PRAYERS FOR THE MINISTRIES OF THE 
CHURCH: 

For the Church 48 

For the Unity of God's People 50 

Preparation for Worship 51 

General Prayers for Common Worship 56 

Special Intercessions for Common Worship. 66 

For Preparation for the Holy Communion 74 

For the Ministry 76 

For the Pastor and His People 78 

For a Conference Session 81 

For Church Workers: Deaconesses, Brotherhoods, 

Epworth League, etc 82 

For the Ministry of the Choir 84 

For the Ministry of Giving 86 

For the Ministry of the Word 88 

For Youth and the Sunday School 89 

For Sunday School Teachers 90 

For Bible Classes 91 

For Missions 92 

For Schools and Colleges 100 

For a Service in School or College 105 

For the Opening or Dedication of a College 106 

PRAYERS FOR SPECIAL SEASONS OF THE CHRIS- 
TIAN YEAR: 

Advent 109 

Christmas 109 

The New Year 111 

5 



6 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

PAGE 

Good Friday : 112 

Easter Day 114 

PRAYERS FOR USE IN THE FAMILY: 

General Prayers for the Family Altar 117 

Various Prayers for the Family 138 

For Those Who Train Children 147 

Children's Prayers 147 

Graces for the Table 150 

BIBLE READINGS FOR FAMILY WORSHIP: 

Psalms for Common Worship or For the Family Altar. . 169 

PRAYERS FOR SPECIAL OBJECTS AND PERSONS: 

For Those in Affliction 170 

Thanksgiving for Recovery 172 

For the Sick and Dying 172 

For a Sick Child . . . 173 

For Those Who Care for the Sick 174 

For the Aged 174 

For the Communion of Saints 176 

For Social Service 177 

For Temperance and Prohibition 186 

For Our Nation and Rulers 188 

For Thanksgiving Day 195 

ORDER OF PUBLIC WORSHIP, METHODIST 

EPISCOPAL CHURCH 197 

ORDER OF WORSHIP— WESLEY SUNDAY SER- 
VICE 199 

THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE: 

Original Preface by John Wesley 200 

THE COMMANDMENTS AND RESPONSES 247 

THE RITUAL OF THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL 

CHURCH 250 

THE ARTICLES OF RELIGION 277 

THE GENERAL RULES 283 

SPECIAL ADVICES 286 

THE CATECHISM 289 

BENEDICTIONS 308 



PREFACE 

THIS volume is designed as a book o£ prayers 
suitable for personal use, for the family altar, 
for the inspiration and guidance of the ministry 
in common worship, and for use in the religious in- 
struction of youth and children; 

These prayers, gathered from ancient and modern 
sources, should bring the heart of the devout reader 
into the prayer mood and cultivate the atmosphere 
of prayer in personal and family life. Not to read a 
prayer but to be a prayer is the chief thing. Thus 
the Psalmist: "My soul is silence, waiting all hushed 
for God," as Luther translates. Prayer is the secret 
of a holy life. It should lead into the joy of the Lord 
and reveal the secrets of his presence. Prayers such 
as these not only cultivate the language of prayer 
but set the heart a-hungering for God. The essen- 
tial of a book of devotion is not to let it pray for us, 
but to "push the soul off into the sea of God"; to 
bring one into the practice of the presence of God. 

The Wesley Sunday Service is included for its 
historical interest as well as its value as a book of 
devotion. It reveals the fact that our Ritual roots 
back into the liturgy of the early church. The text 
used is that edited by Professor Harrower. In mak- 
ing this adaptation from the Book of Common Prayer 
of the Church of England, Mr. Wesley wrote: "I be- 
lieve there is no liturgy in the world either in ancient 
or modern languages which breathes more of solid 
Scriptural piety." Its occasional use may tend to 
enrich our form of worship. 

Happily while the Methodist Episcopal Church has 
instituted a stated Order of Public Worship, yet it 
has ever encouraged the exercise of free prayer. Too 
often ministers, neglecting to acquire the spirit and 
gift of prayer, have offended devout and sensitive 



8 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

souls "by mean, irregular or extravagant effusions." 
If in our worship we would "adorn the gospel of God 
our Saviour in all things," cultivate the spirit of 
reverence and promote piety, devout study must be 
given to the acquirement of noble, clear, and uplift- 
ing expression in prayer. 

In this book are offered not only ancient and vener- 
able forms of prayer such as have survived the usage 
of centuries, but also prayers which voice the needs 
and desires of worshipers in the living church of 
to-day with its multiplied forms of service. 

While scores of books have added their treasures 
during many years of study and communion, the com- 
piler would acknowledge with gratitude permission 
to make use of copyright material in the devotional 
books by Mrs. Mary W. Tileston, Little, Brown & 
Co.; A Book of Offices and Prayers for Priest and 
People, Edwin S. Gorham; A Chain of Prayers Across 
the Ages, by Selina F. Fox, E. P. Dutton & Co.,— 
especially helpful in verifying the origin and fixing 
the dates of many prayers; A Book of Family Wor- 
ship and The Book of Common Worship, Presby- 
terian Board of Publication, which are of exceptional 
value, as books of devotion, and from which, with the 
gracious permission of the Board, most helpful ma- 
terial has been drawn. He would also thank the 
Vir Publishing Company for permission to use two 
modern prayers from God's Minute; E. P. Dutton & 
Co., for the use of several prayers from W. E. 
Orchard's The Temple; Dodd, Mead & Co., for two 
prayers from Dr. McComb's A Book of Prayers; The 
Missionary Education Movement, for prayers from 
Thy Kingdom Come, by Ralph E. Diffendorfer; 
Charles Scribner's Sons, for several prayers by Robert 
Louis Stevenson; and the Pilgrim Press, for the use 
of three prayers from Rauschenbusch's Prayers for the 
Social Awakening. 

WILBUR PATTERSON THIRKIELD. 



PRAYERS ANCIENT AND MODERN 

& jUtormng draper 

FROM the night our spirit awaketh unto thee, O 
God, for thy precepts are a light unto us. Teach 
us, O God, thy righteousness, thy commandments, and 
thy judgments. Enlighten the eyes of our mind, that 
we sleep not in sins unto death. Drive away all dark- 
ness from our hearts. Vouchsafe us the Sun of Right- 
eousness. Guard our life from all reproach by the 
seal of thy Holy Spirit. Guide our steps into the way 
of peace. Grant us to behold the dawn and the day 
with joyfulness, that we may send up to thee our 

prayers at eventide. —Daybreak Office of Eastern Church. 

Jfor Cfjeerfulnesg 

OGOD, who hast folded back the mantle of the 
night to clothe us in the golden glory of the day, 
chase from our hearts all gloomy thoughts, and make 
us glad with the brightness of hope, that we may 
effectively aspire to unwon virtues, through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. — An Ancient Collect, A. D. 590. 

<Ko MM tfje tEasks ot tfje Bap 

"C^ATHER, I thank thee for thy mercies which are 
■*■ new every morning. For the gift of sleep; for 
health and strength; for the vision of another day 
with its fresh opportunities of work and service; for 
all these and more than these, I thank thee. Before 
looking on the face of men I would look on thee, who 
art the health of my countenance and my God. Not 
without thy guidance would I go forth to meet the 
duties and tasks of the day. Strengthen me so that 
in all my work I may be faithful; amid trials, cour- 



io SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

ageous; in suffering, patient; under disappointment, 
full of hope in thee. Grant this for thy goodness' 

Sake. Amen. . —Samuel McComb. 

"Eorb, Remember Mt** 

OLORD, thou knowest how busy we must be this 
day; if we forget thee, do not thou forget us; 
for Christ's sake. Amen. 

— General Lord Astley, A. D. 1579, before the Battle of Edgehill. 

Jfor a 2iap tottfjout Stumbling anb imtbout g>tam 

GRANT us, O Lord, to pass this day in gladness 
and peace, without stumbling and without stain; 
that, reaching the eventide victorious over all tempta- 
tion, we may praise thee, the eternal God, who art 
blessed, and dost govern all things, world without end. 

Amen. — Mozarabic, before A. D. 700. 

Gfl&anfeggibmg 

WE give thee hearty thanks for the rest of the 
past night and for the gift of a new day, with 
its opportunities of pleasing thee. Grant that we may 
so pass its hours in the perfect freedom of thy serv- 
ice, that at eventide we may again give thanks unto 
thee; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Daybreak Office of the Eastern Church. 

draper for tfje 3Bap 

THE day returns and brings us the petty round of 
irritating concerns and duties. Help us to play 
the man, help us to perform them with laughter and 
kind faces; let cheerfulness abound with industry. 
Give us to go blithely on our business all this day, 
bring us to our resting beds weary and content and 
undishonored ; and grant us in the end the gift of 
sleep. Amen. — Robert Louis Stevenson. 

OLORD, my God, what is thy will for me to-day? 
What task hast thou for me? What opportunity 
hast thou placed in my way? Open mine eyes that I 



PRAYERS ANCIENT AND MODERN n 

may discover thy will! Save me from wasting the 
new day! May I turn it into eternal profit! 

—Dr. J. H. Jowett. 

Jfor Spiritual ILitfht 

ALMIGHTY GOD, in whom is no darkness at all, 
grant us thy light perpetually, and when we can- 
not see the way before us, may we continue to put 
our trust in thee, that so being guided and guarded, 
we may be kept from falling this day, and finally, by 
thy mercy, enter into our rest; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

Cbemtig draper 

TN the evening and morning and noonday we praise 
■*■ thee, we thank thee, and pray thee, Master of all, 
to direct our prayers as incense before thee. Let not 
our hearts turn away to words or thoughts of wicked- 
ness, but keep us from all things that might hurt us; 
for to thee, O Lord, our eyes look up, and our hope 
is in thee: confound us not, O our God; for the sake 
of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Eastern Church Vespers, Third Century. 

Jfor ^fjtne &ngete' Cfjarge 

"\X7ATCH thou, dear Lord, with those who wake, 
^ * or watch, or weep to-night, and give thine 
angels charge over those who sleep. Tend thy sick 
ones, O Lord Christ. Rest thy weary ones. Bless 
thy dying ones. Soothe thy suffering ones. Pity 
thine afflicted ones. Shield thy joyous ones. And all, 

for thy Love's Sake. Amen. —Saint Augustine, A. D. 354- 

3fox Jforgibenesi^ 

"DEFORE we go to rest we would commit ourselves 
-■— ' to God's care through Christ, beseeching him to 
forgive us for all our sins of this day past, and to 
keep alive his grace in our hearts, and to cleanse us 
from all sin, pride, harshness, and selfishness, and give 
us the spirit of meekness, humility, firmness, and love. 



12 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

O Lord, keep thyself present to us ever, and perfect 
thy strength in our weakness. Take us and ours 
under thy blessed care this night and evermore; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Br. Arnold, A. D. 1795. 

Jfor "&fte igris&tneste of Cfjp ^retfeme" 

TWTOST gracious God, to know and love whose will 
-*■*-*- is righteousness, enlighten our souls with the 
brightness of thy presence, that we may both know 
thy will and be enabled to perform it; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. —Roman Breviary, A. D. 1099. 

Jfor (grace to Jfollofca fEfjee 

OLORD, our Guide even unto death, grant us, I 
pray thee, grace to follow thee whithersoever 
thou goest. In little daily duties to which thou callest 
us, bow down our wills to simple obedience, patience 
under pain or provocation, strict truthfulness of word 
and manner, humility, kindness: in great acts of duty 
or perfection if thou shouldest call us to them, uplift 
us to self-sacrifice, heroic courage, laying down of 
life for thy truth's sake or for a brother. Amen. 

— Christina G. Rossetti. 

jfor 3Ugf?t to JfollotD &fjee 

DIRECT our steps this day, O Lord, into the way 
of peace, and strengthen our hearts to obey thy 
commandments; may the Dayspring visit us from on 
high, and give light to those who sit in darkness and 
the shadow of death, that they may adore thee for thy 
mercy, follow thee for thy truth, desire thee for thy 
sweetness, who art the blessed Lord God of Israel, 
both now and evermore. Amen. 

— An Ancient Collect, A. D. 440. 

jfor Cleanness of Jleart anti Courage 

GIVE us, O Lord, purity of lips, clean and innocent 
hearts, and rectitude of action; give us humility, 
patience, self-control, prudence, justice, and courage; 






PRAYERS ANCIENT AND MODERN 13 

give us the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the 
spirit of counsel and strength, the spirit of knowledge 
and godliness, and of thy fear; make us ever to seek 
thy face with all our heart, all our soul, all our mind; 
grant us to have a contrite and humbled heart in thy 
presence, to prefer nothing to thy love. Have mercy 
upon us, we humbly beseech thee; through Jesus our 

Lord. Amen. — Galilean Sacramentary, A. D. 742. 

jfor JJolp &efcerence 

HOLY GOD, teach me this day how to worship! 
May my soul be upon its knees! May I discern 
thy presence, and be filled with holy reverence and 
fear! Teach me to pray! —Dr. J. H. Jowett. 

jfor Gftjee gfoobe &U Creatures 

GRANT me, O most loving Lord, to rest in thee 
above all creatures, above all health and beauty, 
above all glory and honor, above all power and 
dignity, above all knowledge and subtilty, above all 
riches and art, above all fame and praise, above all 
sweetness and comfort, above all hope and promise, 
above all gifts and favors that thou canst give and 
impart to us, above all jubilee that the mind of man 
can receive and feel; finally, above angels and arch- 
angels, and above all the heavenly host, above all 
things visible and invisible, and above all that thou 
art not, O my God. It is too small and unsatisfying, 
whatsoever thou bestowest on me apart from thee, 
or revealest to me, or promisest, whilst thou art not 
seen, and not fully obtained. For surely my heart 
cannot truly rest, nor be entirely contented, unless it 
rest in thee. Amen. —Thomas a Kempis. 

jfor His6t anb Holie 

T ET thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us, and the bright- 
-■— ' ness of thy Spirit illumine our inward souls, that 
he may kindle our cold hearts, and light up our dark 
minds; who abideth evermore with thee in thy glory. 

Amen. — Mozarabic, before A. D. 700. 



i 4 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

JLitanp 

GLORY be to thee, O Lord, glory to thee. 
Glory to thee who givest me sleep 
to recruit my weakness, 
and to remit the toils 
of this fretful flesh. 
To- this day and all days 
a perfect; holy, peaceful, healthy, sinless course, 
vouchsafe, O Lord. 

The Angel of peace, a faithful guide, 

guardian of souls and bodies, 

to encamp around me, 

and ever to prompt what is salutary, 

vouchsafe, O Lord. 

Pardon and remission 

of all sins and of all offenses 

vouchsafe, O Lord. 

To our souls what is good and convenient, 

and peace to the world, 

vouchsafe, O Lord. 

Repentance and strictness 

for the residue of our life, 

and health and peace to the end, 

vouchsafe, O Lord. 

Whatever is true, whatever is honest, 

whatever just, whatever pure, 

whatever lovely, whatever of good report, 

if there be any virtue, if any praise, 

such thoughts, such deeds, 

vouchsafe, O Lord. 

A Christian close, 

without sin, without shame, 

and, should it please thee, without pain, 

and a good answer 

at the dreadful and fearful judgment-seat 

of Jesus Christ our Lord, 

vouchsafe, O Lord. 

— Bishop Andr ewes' s Devotions, I555> 



PRAYERS ANCIENT AND MODERN 15 

jfor "a perfect ^eart" 

GIVE unto us, O Lord, we humbly beseech thee, a 
wise, a sober, a patient, an understanding, a 
devout, a religious, a courageous heart; a soul full of 
devotion to do thee service, strength against all 
temptations; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Archbishop Laud, A. D. 1573' 

jfor Bibtne Jlelp anb protection 

OTHOU that art our Helper, the Mighty One, thou 
that respecteth not the persons of men, be thou 
the help of all thy people, whom thou hast purchased 
with the precious blood of Christ. Thou art our 
Fortress and Defender, and none can pluck us out 
of thy hand. There is none other God like unto thee ; 
in thee is our trust. Sanctify us through thy truth, 
thy word is truth. Preserve us and all thy people 
from all injury and deceit, from the fear of the enemy, 
from the arrow that flieth by day, and the mischief 
that walketh in darkness, and vouchsafe unto us the 
eternal life which is in Christ thy Son, our Lord and 

Saviour. Amen. —Liturgy of the Greek Church.. 

OLORD Jesus Christ, sinless Son of man who art 
evermore ready to succor them that are tempted; 
grant unto us, thy servants, both valor and constancy, 
that we may keep undefiled our own purity, fight man- 
fully against the corruption that is in the world, and 
shield and rescue those that are in peril and sore 
beset. These things we ask of the love of the Father 
and the power of the Holy Ghost in thy name, who 
with them, livest and reignest, one God, world with- 
out end. Amen. 

(EJe Call to t&e ©olp spirit 

TDLESSED Holy Spirit, we thank thee for thy light 
•■— ' on the hills. Daylight is come to us when thou 
art come. We need not walk in darkness any more. 
| The Holy Ghost is come to bring the high truths of 
Christ to our remembrance. The Light is here: we 



16 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

may no longer walk in darkness. We must not. Thou 
knowest how our candle burns so dimly and fails be- 
fore the wild winds' blowing. Give us thy steady 
light of the stars. May it shine all night long from 
evening to morning, and give way only to the sun. 
Make it light on our path, that we stumble not. Make 
it light on our work-bench, so that we .do not fumble 
our task. Make it light on God's Book, so that we 
may miss no syllable of the holy reading. Make it 
light in our prayer room, so that when we look we 
may clearly see God's face, and be greatly helped. 
Make it light in our house of prayer, so that we shall 
omit no note in the choral of a redeemed gladness. 
Make it light in our home, so we shall see the sudden 
tear and kiss it away from the cheek, and the lines 
of care on the face and smooth them out with a loving 
hand. Make it light in the house of death, so we shall 
have plenty of light to see by that we do not stumble, 
but, without a misstep, go straight toward the leaning 
face and get the waiting kiss from him. Amen. 

— Bishop Quayle. 

Gfl&at Wt Jfall into no &in 

OLORD, our heavenly Father, almighty and ever- 
lasting God, who hast safely brought us to the 
beginning of this day, defend us in the same with 
thy mighty power ; and grant that this day we fall into 
no sin, neither run into any kind of danger; but that 
all our doings, being ordered by thy governance, may 
be righteous in thy sight; through Jesus Christ our 

Lord. Amen. — Gelasian Sacramentary, A. D. 494. 

jfor tfje <§labne£tf of 3^rfect &Qta 

ETERNAL God, lead us into the blessedness of the 
mystery of communion with thee. Bow our spirits 
in deepest reverence before thee, yet uplift us into 
a sense of kinship. Send the spirit of thy Son into 
our hearts, crying "Abba, Father," that all unworthy 
fear may be banished by the gladness of thy perfect 
love. Thy love is like the luminous heaven, receiving 
only to purify the foulest breath of earth. Thy gentle- 



PRAYERS ANCIENT AND MODERN 17 

ness is like the sun, seeking to cheer and warm the 
chilled hearts of men. Touch us, O our Father, with 
a feeling of thy great realities, for though our thought 
about thee is better than our words, our experience of 
thee is better than our thought. —Samuel McComb. 

tfox &epo£e in Wbtt 

OTHOU good Omnipotent, who so carest for every 
one of us, as if thou caredst for him alone; and 
so for all, as if all were but one! Blessed is the man 
who loveth thee, and his friend in thee, and his enemy 
for thee. I behold how some things pass away that 
others may replace them, but thou dost never depart. 
O God, my Father, supremely good, Beauty of all 
things beautiful, to thee will I intrust whatsoever I 
have received from thee, and so shall I lose nothing. 
Thou madest me for thyself, and my heart is restless 
until it repose in thee. Amen. 

— Saint Augustine (354~43o). 

HOW precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O 
God! 
How great is the sum of them! 
If I should count them, they are more in number than 

the sand: 
When I awake, I am still with thee. . . . 
Search me, O God, and know my heart: 
Try me, and know my thoughts; 
And see if there be any wicked way in me, 
And lead me in the way everlasting. 

— Psalm 139. 17, 18, 23, 24. 

Stoterce&srton 

A LMIGHTY GOD, we beseech thee to hear our 
■**■ prayers for all who sin against thee, or neglect 
to serve thee, all who forget thee, all who leave thee 
out of their lives. O Lord, have mercy upon them ; be- 
stow upon us all true repentance and an earnest long- 
ing for thyself. Vouchsafe, we beseech thee, O Lord, 
to strengthen and confirm all thy faithful people, 



18 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

and to lift up the light of thy face upon them, giving 
them continually heavenly desires; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— From an Ancient Collect, A. D. 440. 

Jfor Wlnitm toitfj tf^ob 

OLORD our God, grant us grace to desire thee 
with our whole heart, that so desiring, we may 
seek and find thee; and so finding thee we may love 
thee; and loving thee we may hate those sins from 
which thou hast redeemed us; for the sake of Jesus 

Christ. Amen. — Saint Anselm, A. D. 1033. 

Sntetrcegtftons? 

MAY God the Father, and the Eternal High Priest 
Jesus Christ, build us up in faith and truth and 
love, and grant to us our portion among the saints 
with all those who believe on our Lord Jesus Christ. 
We pray for all saints, for kings and rulers, for the 
enemies of the cross of Christ, and for ourselves we 
pray that our fruit may abound and we may be made 
perfect in Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen. 

— Bishop Poly carp, A.D. 85- 

WE beseech thee, O Lord, remember all for good; 
have mercy upon all, O God. Remember every 
soul who, being in any affliction, trouble, or agony, 
stands in need of thy mercy and help, all who are in 
necessity, or distress, all who love or hate us. Thou, 
O Lord, art the Helper of the helpless, the Hope of 
the hopeless, the Saviour of them who are tossed with 
tempests, the Haven of them who sail; be thou All 
to all. The glorious majesty of the Lord our God be 
upon us; prosper thou the work of our hands upon us, 
O prosper thou our handiwork! Lord, be thou within 
us, to strengthen us ; without us, to keep us ; above us, 
to protect us; beneath us, to uphold us; before us, to 
direct us; behind us, to keep us from straying; round 
about us, to defend us. Blessed be thou, O Lord our 
Father, for ever and ever. Amen. 

— Bishop Lancelot Andrewes,A. D. 1555* 



PRAYERS ANCIENT AND MODERN 19 

jfor JWorning jfyzaxte anb jfaceaf 

WE beseech thee, Lord, to behold us with favor. 
Be patient still; suffer us a while longer to 
endure, and (if it may be) help us to do better. Bless 
to us our extraordinary mercies. Be with our friends ; 
be with ourselves. Go with each of us to rest; if any 
awake, temper to them the dark hours of watching; 
and when the day returns to" us, call us up with morn- 
ing faces, and with morning hearts — eager to labor — 
eager to be happy, if happiness should be our portion 
— and if the day be marked for sorrow — strong to 

endure it. — Robert Louis Stevenson. 

preparation for Cfjrtet'g Appearing 

HELP us, O Lord, always to wait for thee, to wish 
for thee, and to watch for thee, that at thy com- 
ing again thou mayest find us ready; for thy sake we 

ask it. Amen. —An Ancient Collect, A. D. 440* 

Jfor jjfullnegg of tflrace 

USE me then, my Saviour, for whatever purpose, 
and in whatever way, thou mayest require. Here 
is my poor heart, an empty vessel; fill it with thy 
grace. Here is my sinful and troubled soul; quicken 
it and refresh it with thy love. Take my heart for 
thine abode; my mouth to spread abroad the glory of 
thy name; my love and all my powers, for the ad- 
vancement of thy believing people; and never suffer 
the steadfastness and confidence of my faith to abate 
— that so at all times I may be enabled from the heart 
to say, "Jesus needs me, and I him." —d. l. Moody. 

jfor Cleansing anfci Belifcerauce from §&in 

A LMIGHTY and merciful God, the Fountain of all 
■**■ goodness, who knowest the thoughts of our 
hearts, we confess unto thee that we have sinned 
against thee, and done evil in thy sight. Wash us, we 
beseech thee, from the stains of our past sins, and 
give us grace and power to put away all hurtful 



20 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

things; so that, being delivered from the bondage of 
sin, we may bring forth worthy fruits of repentance. 
O eternal Light, shine into our hearts. O eternal 
Goodness, deliver us from evil. O eternal Power, 
be thou our support. Eternal Wisdom, scatter the 
darkness of our ignorance. Eternal Pity, have mercy 
upon us. Grant unto us that with all our hearts, and 
minds, and strength, we may evermore seek thy face; 
and finally bring us, in thine infinite mercy, to thy 
holy presence. So strengthen our weakness that, fol- 
lowing in the footsteps of thy blessed Son, we may 
obtain thy mercy, and enter into thy promised joy. 

Amen. —Alcuin, A. D. 780. 

Commenbattcn 

OLORD, preserve us this day and strengthen us 
to bear whatever thou shalt see fit to lay on us, 
whether pain, sickness, danger or distress ; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. — Dr. Arnold, A. D. 1795. 

Jfor "SJictorp 

OGOD, the might of all them that put their trust 
in thee, grant that we may be more than con- 
querors over all that make war upon our souls, and, 
in the end, may enter into perfect peace in thy pres- 
ence. Amen. — Roman Breviary. 

jfor a Itaotoleage of <§ob'g ^tll 

OUR Father, teach us not only thy will, but how to 
do it. Teach us the best way of doing the best 
thing, lest we spoil the end by unworthy means; for 
the sake of Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen. 

— Rev. J. H. Jowett, A. D. igii. 

£e Bo anb Peat 

LET me not seek out of thee what I can find only 
in thee, O Lord, peace and rest and joy and bliss, 
which abide only in thine abiding joy. Lift up my 
soul above the weary round of harassing thoughts to 
thy eternal Presence. Lift up my soul to the pure, 



PRAYERS ANCIENT AND MODERN 21 

bright, serene, radiant atmosphere of thy Presence, 
that there I may breathe freely, there repose in thy 
love, there be at rest from myself, and from all things 
that weary me; and thence return, arrayed with thy 
peace, to do and bear what shall please thee. Amen. 

— E. B. Pusey. 

3fot protection of iboul anb poop 

"|WTAY the power of the Father govern us. May the 
1YJ. wisdom of the Son enlighten us. May the opera- 
tion of the Holy Spirit quicken us. O God, we be- 
seech thee guard our souls; sustain our bodies; exalt 
our senses; direct our course; regulate our manners; 
bless our undertakings; fulfill our petitions; inspire 
us with holy thoughts; pardon what is past; rectify 
what is present; order what is to come; and all for 
the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour, who 
alone can make us perfect even as he is perfect. 

Amen, — Bishop Andrewes, A. D. 1555. 

3for &rue goltntgg 

OLORD, the Lord whose ways are right, keep us 
in thy mercy from lip-service and empty forms; 
from having a name that we live, but being dead. 
Help us to worship thee by righteous deeds and lives 
of holiness; that our prayer also may be set forth in 
thy sight as the incense, and the lifting up of our 
hands be as an evening sacrifice. Amen. 

— Christina G. Rossetti. 

igratse anb gboratton 

OGOD, the Father of our Lord God and Saviour 
Jesus Christ, Lord, whose name is great, whose 
goodness is inexhaustible, thou God and Master of all 
things, who art blessed for ever. Sanctify, O Lord, 
our souls, bodies and spirits, and touch our appre- 
hensions and search out our consciences, and cast out 
of us every evil thought, every base desire, all envy 
and pride and hypocrisy, all falsehood, all deceit, all 
worldly anxiety, all covetousness, vainglory and sloth, 



22 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

all malice, all wroth, all anger, all remembrance of 
injuries, every motion of the flesh and spirit that is 
contrary to thy holy will; and grant us, O Lord, the 
Lover of men, with freedom, with a pure heart and a 
contrite soul, without confusion of face, and with 
sanctified lips, boldly to call upon thee, our holy God 
and Father, who art in heaven. Amen. 

— Liturgy of Saint James, Second Century. 

Jfor Smtrefcr of i§>tn 

OLORD our God, grant us grace to desire thee 
with our whole heart; that so desiring we may 
seek and find thee; and so finding thee may love thee; 
and loving thee, may hate those sins from which thou 
hast redeemed us. Amen. —Anseim (1033-nog). 

nfor ^teabfastneste 

OGOD, who hast promised that they who endure 
to the end shall be saved, give us grace to perse- 
vere in thy holy service all our days, that we may 
reach the end of our faith, even the salvation of our 
soul; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

3n tEtme of STroufcle 

O MERCIFUL God, be thou now unto me a strong 
tower of defense, I humbly entreat thee. Give 
me grace to await thy leisure, and patiently to bear 
what thou doest unto me, nothing doubting or mis- 
trusting thy goodness toward me; for thou knowest 
what is good for me better than I do. Therefore do 
with me in all things what thou wilt; only arm me, 
I beseech thee, with thine armor, that I may stand 
fast; above all things, taking to me the shield of faith; 
praying always that I may refer myself wholly to thy 
will, abiding thy pleasure, and comforting myself in 
those troubles which it shall please thee to send me, 
seeing such troubles are profitable for me; and I am 
assuredly persuaded that all thou doest cannot but be 
well ; and unto thee be all honor and glory. Amen. 

— Lady Jane Grey {i537-i554)> 



PRAYERS ANCIENT AND MODERN 23 

Waiting tit H>ilence 

MY soul, wait thou in silence for God only; 
For my expectation is from him. 
He only is my rock and my salvation: 
He is my high tower; I shall not be moved. 
With God is my salvation and my glory: 
The rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. 
Trust in him at all times, ye people; 
Pour out your heart before him: 
God is a refuge for us. — p S a. 62. 5-8. 

3©ebicattou to <^od'jS H>erbice 

OLORD, give thy blessing, we pray thee, to our 
daily work, that we may do it in faith and 
heartily, as to the Lord and not unto men. All our 
powers of body and mind are thine, and we would 
fain devote them to thy service. Sanctify them, and 
the work in which they are engaged; let us not be 
slothful, but fervent in spirit, and do thou, O Lord, 
so bless our efforts that they may bring forth in us 
the fruits of true wisdom. Teach us to seek after 
truth and enable us to gain it; but grant that we may 
ever speak the truth in love; that, while we know 
earthly things, we may know thee, and be known by 
thee, through and in thy Son Jesus Christ. Give us 
this day thy Holy Spirit, that we may be thine in body 
and spirit in all our work and all our refreshments; 
through Jesus Christ, thy Son, our Lord. Amen. 

— Thomas Arnold, A. D. 1795, 

&o &noto Gflfjee ano Hobe flTfjee 

GRANT me, even me, my dearest Lord, to know 
thee, and love thee, and rejoice in thee. And, if 
I cannot do these perfectly in this life, let me at least 
advance to higher degrees every day, till I can come 
to do them in perfection. Let the knowledge of thee 
increase in me here, that it may be full hereafter. Let 
the love of thee grow every day more and more here, 
that it may be perfect hereafter; that my joy may 
be great in itself, and full in thee. I know, O God, 



24 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

that thou art a God o£ truth; O make good thy gra- 
cious promises to me, that my joy may be full. Amen. 

— Saint Augustine (354-430), 

jfor Jloltneste 

COME in, O Christ, and judge us; come and cast 
out for us every sin that hinders thee; come purge 
our souls by thy presence. Come be our King forever. 

— Bishop Phillips Brooks, A. D. 1893. 

T^ OR this cause I bow my knees unto the Father, 
•*■ from whom every family in heaven and on earth 
is named, that he would grant you, according to the 
riches of his glory, that ye may be strengthened with 
power through his Spirit in the inward man; that 
Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; to the 
end that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may 
be strong to apprehend with all the saints what is the 
breadth and length and height and depth, and to know 
the love of Christ which passeth knowledge, that ye 
may be filled unto all the fullness of God.— Eph. 3. 14-19- 

Jfor jforgibenetfsf 

OGOD, who wouldst not the death of a sinner, but 
that he should be converted and live, forgive the 
sins of us who turn to thee with all our heart, and 
grant us the grace of eternal life, through Jesus Christ 

OUr Lord. Amen. — Ancient Celtic Church Liturgy, Ninth Century. 

^for g>trengtfr tn Btfttcultteg 

O ALMIGHTY GOD, grant, we beseech thee, that 
we whose trust is under the shadow of thy wings, 
may, through the help of thy power, overcome all 
evils that rise up against us; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. — Roman Breviary, A.D. 1099. 

GTo J$z &abeb from Jfal^e Cfjoicetf 

OGOD, by whom the meek are guided in judgment, 
and light riseth up in darkness for the godly, 
grant us, in all our doubts and uncertainties, the grace 



PRAYERS ANCIENT AND MODERN 25 

to ask what thou wouldest have us to do; that the 
Spirit of Wisdom may save us from all false choices, 
and that in thy light we may see light, and in thy 
straight path may not stumble, through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

& draper for "Victor? 

OGOD, the might of all them that put their trust 
in thee, grant that we may be more than con- 
querors over all that make war upon our souls, and in 
the end may enter into perfect peace in thy presence; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Roman Breviary, A. D. iogo. . 

jfor Unotoleoge of ©ftp Will 

O HEAVENLY FATHER, subdue in me whatever 
is contrary to thy holy will. Grant that I may 
ever study to know thy will, that I may know how to 
please thee. Grant, O God, that I may never run into 
those temptations, which in my prayers I desire to 
avoid. Lord, never permit my trials to be above my 
Strength. Amen. —Thomas Wilson {166 3-17 55) > 

"S* &f>ou Wilt' 

OLORD, thou knowest what is best for us, let this 
or that be done, as thou shalt please. Give what 
thou wilt, and how much thou wilt, and when thou 
wilt. Deal with me as thou thinkest good, and as 
best pleaseth thee. Set me where thou wilt, and deal 
with me in all things just as thou wilt. Behold, I am 
thy servant, prepared for all things; for I desire not 
to live unto myself, but unto thee; and O that I could 
do it worthily and perfectly! Amen. 

— Thomas a Kempis {1370-1471). 

Jfor tfce Spirit of &orstfnp 

OGOD, who art the Truth, O God who art a Spirit, 
help us in spirit and in truth to worship thy great 
Name; not acknowledging thee in one place or at one 



26 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

time only, but in every place and at every time, in all 
we do and in all we see, in our work and in our rest, 
in our laughter and our tears, in loneliness and in fel- 
lowship, in the eye of day and in the shadow of night, 
beneath the open sky as in the house of prayer, in the 
heart of the little child as in the wisdom of the man, 
in the fullness of health and strength and happiness 
as in the valley of the shadow of death, through 
which, O Father Almighty, do thou in thy mercy bear 
us to never-ending life and light and love. Amen. 

g>ancttficatton of 3Ufe'g &mall Butieg 

O FATHER, light up the small duties of this day's 
life. May they shine with the beauty of thy 
countenance. May we believe that glory may dwell 
in the commonest task. For the sake of Jesus Christ 
our Lord we ask it. Amen. 

jfor 3lobe ano &&oratton 

OLORD, who hast mercy upon all, take away from 
me my sins, and mercifully kindle in me the fire 
of the Holy Spirit. Take away from me the heart of 
stone, and give me a heart of flesh, a heart to love 
and adore thee, a heart to delight in thee, to follow 
and to enjoy thee, for Christ's sake. Amen. —Ambrose. 

IN the evening, and morning, and noonday, we praise 
thee, we bless thee, we thank thee, and pray thee, 
Master of all, to direct our prayer as incense before 
thee; and let not our hearts turn away to words or 
thoughts of wickedness; but rescue us from all things 
that hurt our souls. For to thee, Lord, Lord, our 
eyes look up, and our hope is in thee. Confound us 

not, O OUr God. — Vespers of Eastern Church. 

Jfor Jlarbon anb Softer to Bo 

FORGIVE me, most gracious Lord and Father, if 
this day I have done or said anything to increase 
the pain of the world. Pardon the unkind word, the 



PRAYERS ANCIENT AND MODERN 27 

impatient gesture, the hard and selfish deed, the fail- 
ure to show sympathy and kindly help where I have 
had the opportunity but missed it; and enable me so 
to live that I may daily do something to lessen the 
tide of human sorrow, and add to the sum of human 
happiness; through him who died for us and rose 
again, thy Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. 

jfor ©efentfe in temptation 

OTHOU who knowest our hearts, and who seest 
our temptations and struggles, have pity upon us, 
and deliver us from the sins which make war upon 
our souls. Thou art all-powerful, and we are weak 
and erring. Our trust is in thee, O thou faithful God. 
Deliver us from the bondage of evil, and grant that 
we may hereafter be thy devoted servants, serving 
thee in the freedom of holy love; for Jesus Christ's 

Sake. Amen. —Eugene Bersier, A. D. 1831. 

& draper for Carbon 

GRANT us, O Lord, such true repentance as may, 
through the blood of Jesus Christ our Saviour, 
blot out the stains of our sins and iniquities. Forgive 
us our sins, O Lord; forgive us our sins for thine 
infinite mercies' sake, and for the sake of Jesus Christ 

OUr Saviour. Amen. —Archbishop Grindal, 1519. 

Jfor a ibense of Soft's? presence Coerptofjere 

TX7E are forced, O Father, to seek thee daily, and 
* V thou offerest thyself daily to be found; when- 
soever we seek we find thee, in the house, in the fields, 
in the temple, and in the highway. Whatsoever we 
do, thou art with us, whether we eat or drink, whether 
we write or work, read, meditate, or pray, thou art 
ever with us; wheresoever we are or whatsoever we 
do, we feel some measure of thy mercies and love. 
If we be oppressed, thou defendest us; if we hunger, 
thou feedest us. Whatsoever we need, thou givest us. 
O continue this thy loving-kindness toward us for- 
ever, that all the world may see thy power, thy mercy, 



28 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

and thy love, wherein thou hast not failed us, that all 
shall see that thy mercies endure forever; through 
Jesus Christ thy Son our Lord. Amen. 

— J. Nor den, A. D. 1548, 

jfor Eopal M>tvbitt 

A LMIGHTY and everlasting God, grant that our 
■**■ wills be ever meekly subject to thy will, and our 
hearts be ever honestly ready to serve thee; for the 
sake of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Roman Breviary, A. D. iogg. 

Jfor ^race to Jfigfjt 

O HEAVENLY FATHER, the Father of all wis- 
dom, understanding, and true strength, I beseech 
thee, for thy only Son our Saviour Christ's sake, look 
mercifully upon me, wretched creature, and send thine 
Holy Spirit into my breast; that not only I may un- 
derstand according to thy wisdom, how this tempta- 
tion is to be borne off, and with what answer it is to 
be beaten back; but also, when I must join to fight in 
the field for the glory of thy name, that then I, being 
strengthened with the defense of thy right hand, may 
manfully ^tand in the confession of thy faith, and of 
thy truth, and may continue in the same unto the end 
of my life, through the same our Lord Jesus Christ. 

Amen. — Bishop Ridley {1500-1555)* 

&fjat Wt fflav Walk ftonestlp 

WE bless and praise and magnify thee, O God of 
our fathers, who hast led us out of the shadows 
of night once more into the light of day. Unto thy 
loving-kindness we make our entreaty; be merciful to 
our misdeeds; accept our prayers in the fulness of thy 
compassions, for thou art our refuge from one genera- 
tion to another, O merciful and almighty God. Suffer 
the true Sun of thy righteousness to shine in our 
hearts, enlighten our reason, and purify our senses; 
that so we may walk honestly as in the day, in the 
way of thy commandments, and reach at last the life 



PRAYERS ANCIENT AND MODERN 29 

eternal, where we shall rejoice in thy inaccessible 
life. For thou art the Fountain of Life, and in thy 

light Shall we See light. -—Greek Church. 

jfor &U i^attonsf 

OTHOU in whose hand are the hearts of thy crea- 
tures, shed abroad thy peace upon the world. By 
the might of thy Holy Spirit quench the pride, and 
anger, and greediness which cause man to strive 
against man, and people against people. Lead all 
nations in the ways of mutual help and good will, and 
hasten the time when the earth shall confess thee in- 
deed for its Saviour and King, and no evil deeds of 
man shall defile thy glorious creation; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

<goo Gaping to QTalfe to Win 

AND is it true, O Lord, that thou art trying to talk 
to us, and we are not much inclined to listen to 
thee? The saying seems so totally out of relation to 
Tightness, not to say righteousness, that when we 
name it, we deny it. And yet, O Lord, when we think 
it over we must acknowledge that it is true, that God 
wants to talk to us more than we want to talk to him. 
We are shamed by this perfidy of our lives. We can- 
not account for it. The bias in us toward evil seems 
to override us so. God, the King of earth and the 
King of souls and the King of eternity, wanting to 
talk to us, and we so busy or so indolent or so frivo- 
lous or so foolish or so wicked, we don't want to talk 
to him! O Lord, shame this from our hearts this 
morning. Let the statement of our case be not only 
our own condemnation but may it lead to our reforma- 
tion. May we this morning take up life's glad busi- 
ness afresh. Let us begin our Lord's Day with talking 
to God. It is so sweet to talk to him: it is so quiet- 
ing to the tangled lines of care that run through and 
through our lives, so quieting to the tingling nerves, 
so restful to the deepest heart. It makes such smooth- 
sailing on wicked waters. It makes such good work 
when work is hard. It takes the tiredness out of the 



30 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

shoulders and the feet and the breast. O God, let 
us all learn the sweetness of talking to thee, the Tight- 
ness of talking to thee, the deep gladness of talking 
to thee. Let us learn that, like as the bough that 
springs back when the bird flies from it, so should 
our lives spring back to God. Help us, Lord. Amen. 

— Bishop Quayle. 

" 3n Cobenant tottfj tEfjee " 

ORD, though I am a miserable and wretched crea- 
•*— ' ture, I am in Covenant with thee through grace. 
And I may, I will, come to thee, for thy people. Thou 
hast made me, though very unworthy, a mean instru- 
ment to do them some good, and thee service ; and 
many of them have set too high a value upon me, 
though others wish and would be glad of my death; 
Lord, however thou dost dispose of me, continue and 
go on to do good for them. Give them consistency of 
judgment, one heart, and mutual love; and go on to 
deliver them, and with the work of reformation; and 
make the name of Christ glorious in the world. Teach 
those who look too much on thy instruments, to de- 
pend more upon thyself. Pardon such as desire to 
trample upon the dust of a poor worm, for they are 
thy people too. And pardon the folly of this short 
prayer: — even for Jesus Christ's sake. And give us 
a good night, if it be thy pleasure. Amen. 

— Oliver Cromwell {1599-16 58). 

tEfjat Wt Jfall into no &in 

OGOD, who art the Author of peace and lover of 
concord, in knowledge of whom standeth our 
eternal life, whose service is perfect freedom; defend 
us, thy humble servants, in all assaults of our enemies; 
that we, surely trusting in thy defense, may not fear 
the power of any adversaries; through the might of 
Jesus Christ our Lord. O Lord, our heavenly Father, 
almighty and everlasting God, who hast safely brought 
us to the beginning of this day; defend us in the same 
with thy mighty power; and grant that this day we 
fall into no sin, neither run into any kind of danger; 






PRAYERS ANCIENT AND MODERN 31 

but that all our doings, being ordered by thy govern- 
ance, may be righteous in thy sight; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord, who ever liveth and reigneth, world 
without end. 

jfor Eobe to &ule tfie JJeart 

SET my heart on fire with the love of thee, most 
loving Father, and then to do thy will, and to obey 
thy commandments, will not be grievous to me. For 
to him that loveth, nothing is difficult, nothing is im- 
possible ; because love is stronger than death. O may 
love fill and rule my heart! For then there will spring 
up and be cherished between thee and me a likeness 
of character, and union of will, so that I may choose 
and refuse what thou dost. May thy will be done in 
me and by me forever. Amen. 

— Paradise for the Christian Soul. 



before a STournep 

GO before thy servant this day; 
if Thou thyself go not forth with me, 
carry me not up hence. 
Thou, who didst guide the Israelites by an Angel, 
the wise men by a star; 
who didst preserve Peter in the waves, 
and Paul in the shipwreck; 
be present with me, O Lord, and dispose my way; 
go with me, and lead me out, and lead me back. 

— Bishop Andrewes. 

Jfor Spiritual Besftres: 

O HEAVENLY FATHER, we humbly beseech thee 
to give unto this household, and unto each member 
of it in particular, a desire and taste for the things 
that are high and spiritual, the love of holiness, and 
the longing for the life of heaven. Grant that what- 
soever things are true, whatsoever things are honor- 
able, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things 
are pure, whatsoever things are lovely and of good 
report, if there be anything which is unselfish and 



32 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

generous, if there be anything which thou wilt accept 
and reward, we may think on these things, and by the 
help of thy Holy Spirit may order our lives and form 
our characters according to them; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Saint Paul, A. D. 64; adapted from Philippians 4. 8, 

jfor %%y Hobe 

OGOD, Fountain of love, pour thy love into our 
souls, that we may love those whom thou lovest, 
with the love thou givest us, and think and speak of 
them tenderly, meekly, lovingly; and so loving our 
brethren and sisters for thy sake, may grow in thy 
love, and dwelling in love may dwell in thee; for 
Jesus Christ's sake. Amen. — e. b. Pusey. 

&f)at <&ux &orfe map foe a Beltgfot 

OLORD, renew our spirits and draw our hearts 
unto thyself that our work may not be to us a 
burden, but a delight; and give us such a mighty love 
to thee as may sweeten all our obedience. O, let 
us not serve thee with the spirit of bondage as slaves, 
but with the cheerfulness and gladness of children, 
delighting ourselves in thee and rejoicing in thy work. 

Amen. — Benjamin Jenks (1646-1724). 

W$t Eorfc'g draper $arapfjra$eb 

OUR FATHER, which art in heaven, In whom we 
live, and move, and have our being, grant that 
we and all Christians may live worthy of this glorious 
relation, and that we may not sin, knowing that we 
are accounted thine. We are thine by adoption, O 
make us thine by the choice of our will. Hallowed 
be thy Name: O God, whose name is great, wonder- 
ful, and holy, grant that we and all thy children may 
glorify thee, not only with our lips, but in our lives; 
that others, seeing our good works, may glorify our 
Father which is in heaven. Thy kingdom come: May 
the kingdoms of the world become the kingdoms of 



PRAYERS ANCIENT AND MODERN 33 

the Lord and of his Christ, and may all that own 
thee for their King become thy faithful subjects, and 

1 obey thy laws. Dethrone, O God, and destroy Satan 

1 and his kingdom, and enlarge the kingdom of grace. 
Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven: We 
adore thy goodness, O God, in making thy will known 
to us in thy Holy Word. May this thy Word be the 
rule of our will, of our desires, of our lives, and 
actions. May we ever sacrifice our will to thine, be 
pleased with all thy choices for ourselves and others, 

; and adore thy providence in the government of the 
world. Give us this day our daily bread: O heavenly 
Father, who knowest what we have need of, give us 
the necessaries and comforts of this life with thy 
blessing; but, above all, give us the Bread that nour- 
isheth to eternal life. O God, who givest to all life 
and breath and all things, give us grace to impart to 
such as are in want, of what thou hast given more 
than our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, 

1 as we forgive them that trespass against us: Make 
us truly sensible of thy goodness, and mercy, and 
patience toward us, that we may from our hearts for- 
give every one his brother their trespasses. And 
lead us not into temptation: Support us, O heavenly 
Father, under all our trials, and grant that they may 
yield us the peaceable fruits of righteousness. But 
deliver us from evil: From all sin and wickedness, 
from our ghostly enemy, and from everlasting death, 
good Lord, deliver us. Deliver us from the evil of 
sin and from the evil of punishment. Deliver us, O 
heavenly Father, from our evil and corrupt nature, 
from the temptations and snares of an evil world, 
and from falling again into the sins repented of. For 
thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, 
for ever and ever. Amen. By thy almighty power, O 
King of heaven, for the glory of thy name, and for 
the love of the Father, grant us all these blessings 
for which thy Son has, taught us to pray. Unto him 
that is able to do for us abundantly more than we 
can ask or think, unto him be glory in the church by 

J Christ Jesus, throughout all ages, world without end. 

! Amen. —Bishop Thomas Wilson, A. D. 1663. 



34 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

pergonal Sntercesteionss 

tfox tf)t 2Bap 

r ORD, for to-morrow and its needs 
■" I do not pray; 
Keep me, my God, from stain of sin 

Just for to-day. 
Help me to labor earnestly, 

And duly pray; 
Let me be kind in word and deed, 

Father, to-day. 

"^abing ^>t)ut Kf)v Boor $raj>" 

BUT thou, when thou prayest, enter into thine inner 
chamber, and having shut thy door, pray to thy 
Father who is in secret, and thy Father who seeth in 
secret shall recompense thee. —Matthew 6. 5, 6. 

Jfor "fXteton 

MY Father, may the heavens be open to-day! I 
would have visions of the things of God. Give 
me power to apprehend and love them. May they be 
to me as meat and drink! 

Ceacf) Mt fjofej to iPrap 

OLORD! I know not what I should ask of thee. 
Thou only knowest what I want; and thou lovest 
me, if I am thy friend, better than I can love myself. 

Lord! give to me, thy child, what is proper, whatso- 
ever it may be. I dare not ask either crosses or com- 
forts. I only present myself before thee. I open my 
heart to thee. Behold my wants, which I myself am 
ignorant of; but do thou behold, and do according to 
thy mercy. Smite, or heal! Depress me, or raise me 
up. I adore all thy purposes without knowing them. 

1 am silent, I offer myself in sacrifice. I abandon 
myself to thee. I have no more any desire but to 
accomplish thy will. Lord, teach me how to pray! 
Dwell thou thyself in me by thy Holy Spirit. 

— Fenelon (16 51-17 15). 



PERSONAL INTERCESSIONS 35 

drapers jfor &o=Bai> 

IN this hour o£ this day, fill us, O Lord, with thy 
mercy, that rejoicing throughout the whole day, 
we may take delight in thy praise; through Jesus 

Christ our Lord. Amen. —Sarum Breviary, A. D. 1085. 

SEND thy peace into my heart, O Lord, that I may 
be contented with thy mercies of this day, and 
confident of thy protection for this night; and having 
forgiven others even as thou dost forgive me, may 
I go to my rest in tranquillity and trust; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

MY Father, teach me ever deeper meanings in the 
purpose of life. Save me from abusing my days. 
Give me a sense of the unspeakable value of time. 
May I so live as to place a jewel in every moment! 
May the entire day shine like fine gold! 

OLORD, who, in infinite wisdom and love, orderest 
all things for thy children, order everything this 
day for me in thy tender pity. Thou knowest my 
weakness, who madest me; thou knowest how my 
soul shrinks from all pain of soul. Lord, I know thou 
wilt lay no greater burden on me than thou canst help 
me to bear. Teach me to receive all things this day 
from thee. Enable me to commend myself in all 
things to thee; grant me in all things to please thee; 
bring me through all things nearer unto thee; bring 
me, day by day, nearer to thyself, to life everlasting. 
Amen. — e. b. Pusey. 

Jfor Jttoral Courage 

HEAVENLY FATHER, thou knowest the weak- 
ness and cowardliness of my heart. Thou knowest 
how much I care for the opinion of men. Help me, I 
beseech thee, to care more for what will please thee. 
Make me strong and courageous that I may never be 
afraid to do my duty. Give me grace and courage to 
speak when and as I should. Let me never betray 
thee, O Christ, my Lord and Saviour, either by word 
or act. 



36 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

draper* for tfte Movnins W&ttb 

O SEARCHER of hearts, thou knowest us better 
than v/e know ourselves, and seest the sins which 
our sinfulness hides from us. Yet even our own con- 
science beareth witness against us, that we often 
slumber on our appointed watch; that we walk not 
always lovingly with each other, and humbly with 
thee; and we withhold that entire sacrifice of our- 
selves to thy perfect will, without which we are not 
crucified with Christ, or sharers in his redemption. 
O look upon our contrition, and lift up our weakness, 
and let the dayspring yet arise within our hearts, and 
bring us healing, strength, and joy. Day by day may 
we grow in faith, in self-denial, in charity, in heavenly- 
mindedness. And then, mingle us at last with the 
mighty host of thy redeemed for evermore. Amen. 

— James Martineau (1805-1906) . 

STRONG Son of God, who was tried and tempted 
to the uttermost, yet without sin; be near me now 
with thy strength and give me the victory over this 
evil desire that threatens to ruin me. I am weak, O 
Lord, and full of doubts and fears. There are mo- 
ments when I am afraid of myself, when the world 
and the flesh and the devil seem more powerful than 
the forces of good. But now I look to thee in whom 
dwelleth all the fullness of grace and might and re- 
demption. Blessed Saviour! I take thee afresh to 
be my Refuge, my Covert, my Defense, my strong 
Tower from the enemy. Hear me and bless me now 
and ever. Amen. Samuel McComb. 



AH, LORD GOD, thou holy Lover of my soul, when 
thou comest into my soul, all that is within me 
shall rejoice. Thou art my glory and the exultation 
of my heart ; thou art my hope and refuge in the 
day of my trouble. Set me free from all evil pas- 
sions, and heal my heart of all inordinate affections; 
that, being inwardly cured and thoroughly cleansed, 
I may be made fit to love, courageous to suffer, steady 



PERSONAL INTERCESSIONS 37 

to persevere. Nothing is sweeter than love, nothing 
more courageous, nothing fuller nor better in heaven 
i and earth; because love is born of God, and cannot 
rest but in God, above all created things. Let me 
love thee more than myself, nor love myself but for 

thee. Amen. — Thomas a Kempis (1370-1471). 

& draper of {Efmnfeggttring 

I AM forced, good Father, to seek thee daily, and 
thou offerest thyself daily to be found: whenso- 
ever I seek, I find thee, in my house, in the fields, 
in the temple, and in the highway. Whatsoever I do, 
thou art with me; whether I eat or drink, whether I 
write or work, go to ride, read, meditate, or pray, 
thou art ever with me; wheresoever I am, or whatso- 
ever I do, I feel some measure of thy mercies and 
love. If I be oppressed, thou def endest me ; if I be 
envied, thou guardest me; if I hunger, thou feedest 
me ; whatsoever I want thou givest me. . O continue 
this loving-kindness toward me forever, that all the 
world may see thy power, thy mercy, and thy love, 
wherein thou hast not failed me, and even my enemies 
shall see that thy mercies endure forever. 

— J. Nor den (1548-1625). 

<gk BeMcatton 

*C*ATHER, from this moment thou shalt have all 
■*- there is of me. I put myself and all that goes 
with me into thy hands. I belong to thee, and noth- 
ing that thou dost require of me will I deny thee. 
Thou shalt have the adoration of my whole heart. 
This heart shall throb for thee. Thou shalt have my 
whole will. Thy will shall be my will. Thou shalt 
have this brain to think thy thoughts after thee, this 
tongue to speak thy word, these hands to do thy work, 
these feet to go on thine errands. And if there is 
anything I have called my own that thou wouldst 
have, it shall be thine. Lord, thou shalt have all there 
is of me. Lord, thou hast all there is of me. Use 
me, I pray thee, for thy dear Son's sake. Amen. 

— Rev. Edward Leigh Pell. 



38 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

TWTY Father, may my influence to-day be sweet and 
"-*■ wholesome! May I inspire some desponding 
heart, even when I do not know it, by the quiet confi- 
dence of my faith! May some fearful heart take cour- 
age because I am not afraid! May I cheer by my 
cheerfulness ! 

ggatngt €tnl &f)ougf)t£ 

ALMIGHTY GOD, who seest that we have no power 
of ourselves to help ourselves; keep us both out- 
wardly in our bodies, and inwardly in our souls; that 
we may be defended from all adversities which may 
happen to the body, and from all evil thoughts which 
may assault and hurt the soul; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

ggatnst 3tole Walk 

PARDON, O Lord, I beseech thee, my misuse of 
thy most gracious gift of speech; set a watch 
upon the door of my lips, that I offend not with my 
tongue; that being careful to confess my own faults 
with penitence and not to publish my neighbor's fail- 
ings with malice or derision, I may ever speak words 
of love and godliness; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

jfor "Piston 

OGOD, open the eyes of our hearts that we may 
see the wonderful things out of thy law; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

LORD, we pray thee that thou wilt open our eyes 
to behold the heaven that lies about us, wherein 
they walk who, being born to the new life, serve thee 
with the clearer vision and the greater joy; through 
Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen. 

MAKER and lover of beauty, we adore thee for the 
splendor of the universe. Help us to use its 
wonders and its loveliness as an open door through 
which we shall enter into the imperishable beauty of 



PERSONAL INTERCESSIONS 39 

thy kingdom; through him on whose face the full 
beauty of thy being shone, Jesus Christ our Saviour. 
Amen. 

OPEN mine eyes, O Lord, to see thy beauty, and 
seeing it to love it, and loving it to follow after 
it, that so I may come at last to thy heavenly kingdom, 
to see thee face to face in thy beauty, O King of 
kings; who with the Father and the Holy Spirit art 
one God, world without end. Amen. 

Sntercesstons? 

MY Father, wilt thou teach me the meaning of true 
service? Save me from seeking my life in sel- 
fish seclusion. Let me go out of myself to find myself. 
May I experience the joy of sacrifice! May I enrich 
the well-being of my brother! 

MY Father, may I be helped to strengthen the ties 
of brotherhood among men to-day! May my 
life tend to enrich human fellowships! May my 
speech be a bond of union! May my behavior knit 
society into a closer communion! 

MY Father in heaven, I would remember those 
whom in prayer I am inclined to forget. I pray 
for those whom I dislike. Defend me against my 
own feelings! Change my inclinations! Give me a 
heart of pity! Give me the purity of heart which 
finds thine image everywhere! 

TWTY Father, may the Holy Spirit accompany me 
"■*■ throughout the hours of this day! May his 
presence illumine my mind and warm my heart! May 
he teach me how to think and how to speak! May I 
not offend in speech or in deed! 

GRACIOUS Lord, wilt thou lead me into finer sym- 
pathy with all things that are noble and good? 
Take away all the scales from mine eyes. Help me 



40 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

to see all things even as thou dost see them. May I 
have the mind of Christ ! — Dr. J. H. Jowett. 

GREAT GOD, teach me to walk before thee in 
reverence and godly fear. Save me from flip- 
pancy. May no frivolity intrude into my communion 
with thee! May my Spirit be ever upon its knees! 
May I never lose sight of the great white throne! 

jfor Confidence anb ^>ubmtegion 

OLORD, grant that my heart may be truly cleansed 
and filled with thy Holy Spirit, and that I may 
arise to serve thee, and lie down to sleep in entire 
confidence in thee, and submission to thy will, ready 
for life or for death. Let me live for the day, not 
overcharged with, worldly cares, but feeling that my 
treasure is not here, and desiring truly to be joined 
to thee in thy heavenly kingdom, and to those who 
are already gone to thee. O Lord, save me from sin, 
and guide me with thy Spirit, and keep me in faithful 
obedience to thee, through Jesus Christ thy Son, our 

Lord. Amen. —Thomas Arnold. 

jfor Bail? &enetoal 

I GIVE thee humble thanks, O heavenly Father, that 
thou hast vouchsafed to call me to the knowledge 
of thy grace and faith in thee; increase this knowl- 
edge and confirm this faith in me evermore. Grant 
that I may daily be renewed by thy Holy Spirit, so 
that all sinful affections may die in me and that all 
things belonging to the Spirit may live and grow in 
me ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

jfor Protfjerlp ^junpatfjp 

FATHER of all, wilt thou teach me how to promote 
the well-being of all thy children? If my outlook 
be selfish, wilt thou make it brotherly? May my life 
be like a house with many mansions, with room for 
the entertainment of my brethren! 



PERSONAL INTERCESSIONS 41 

HEAVENLY FATHER, give me the grace of sym- 
pathy. Keep my affection soft and sensitive. 
Save me from growing hard. May I be easily touched 
with the feeling of the injustice done to others! 

Metrication 

INTO thy hands, O Lord, I commend myself, 
my spirit, soul, and body: 
Thou didst make, and didst redeem them; 
and together with me all my friends 
and all that belongs to me. 
Thou hast vouchsafed them to me, Lord, 

in thy goodness. 
Guard my lying down and my rising up, 
from henceforth and forever. 
Let me remember thee on my bed, 
and search out my spirit; 
let me wake up and be present with thee; 
let me lay down in peace, and take my rest: 
for it is thou, Lord, only 
that makest me dwell in safety. 

— Bishop Andr ewes' s Devotions. 

"$uritp Mt, ano 3 g>fmll T&t Clean" 

BEHOLD, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: 
and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to 
know wisdom. 

Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash 
me, and I shall be whiter than snow. 

Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones 
which thou hast broken may rejoice. 

Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine 
iniquities. 

Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a 
right spirit within me. 

Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not 
thy Holy Spirit from me. 

Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and up- 
hold me with thy free Spirit. 

Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sin- 
ners shall be converted unto thee. —Psalm 51. 6-13. 



42 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

Jfor Jforgibenesg 

TJTAVE compassion, O God, upon thy servants; see- 
-*^* ing that our hearts are grieved for having 
offended against thee, and our own consciences con- 
demn us, and we have no refuge save only in thy 
mercy, which thou hast revealed through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

O MERCIFUL God, the Fountain of goodness, who 
knowest the thoughts of our hearts; we confess 
unto thee that we have sinned against thee, and done 
evil in thy sight. Wash us, we beseech thee, from 
the stains of our past sins, and give us grace and 
power to put away all hurtful things; that being de- 
livered from the bondage of sin, we may walk in the 
path of thy commandments; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

AGAINST thee, O Lord, have we sinned, and done 
evil in thy sight. We are not worthy to be called 
thy sons. We have sinned miserably. We have 
periled our souls. And yet what is our sorrow for 
our sins? O God, w r e tremble when we see how cold 
and hard and unmoved our hearts remain. We say, 
"We are heartily sorry for these our misdoings," yet 
we much fear our sorrow is not hearty. We say, "The 
remembrance of them is grievous unto us," yet our 
grief is but as the shadow that passeth by. We say, 
"The burden of them is intolerable," yet that burden 
bears not down our souls in shame and sorrow. O 
Lord, we are amazed to behold how lightly we are 
moved by our exceeding sinfulness. Thou who didst 
cause water to flow out of the rock of stone, break 
these stony hearts of ours, that streams of true godly 
sorrow and penitence may flow forth. Take away the 
heart of stone and give unto us the heart of flesh, that 
we may feel our own great misery, and cast ourselves 
upon thy great mercy. May thy Holy Spirit work in 
us the grace of a true repentance. May we learn to 
know how much we have sinned and how much we 
have been forgiven, that so we may love much; 
through Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour. Amen. 



PERSONAL INTERCESSIONS 43 

LORD of all grace, may thy kindly Spirit work in 
the secret places of my life! I would be thine 
in the inward parts. I would have no secret chamber 
of my own. I would give thee every room of my life. 
Search me and know me, and make me entirely thine. 

Ufor Courtesy 

MY Saviour, wilt thou teach me the power of the 
smallest ministries? May I not despise the 
things that are least! May I pay heed to all the cour- 
tesies of life! Help me to be kindly in speech, and 
tender and graceful in behavior. 

jfor ibpmpatftp 

WE thank thee, O Tender Friend, that thou hast 
not left the world. Bless the homesick, sad- 
hearted, defeated, and discouraged. Lift up those 
worn down by hard toil. Supply us with richest sym- 
pathy to pour into bruised hearts. Give us tender 
patience for sinners. Sensitize our ears to the stories 
that come from those bearing back-bending burdens. 
May we be good brothers to man. Keep us tender- 
hearted. Soften our touch. Stop our tongues from 
stinging speech. Mellow our eyes with a love interest 
in others. Shape us into good under-shepherds, O 

Christ JeSUS, for thy glory. Amen. —Christian F. Reisner. 

Jfor tfje 0xatt of 3&efoerence 

OGOD, our heavenly Father, who hath magnified 
thy name and thy Word above all things; imprint 
upon our hearts such a sense of thy majesty and such 
a reverence for thy holy name, that we may never take 
it lightly or carelessly upon our lips. Set a watch 
before our mouth, and keep the door of our lips, that 
we may always speak soberly and thoughtfully. Let 
our yea be yea, and our nay, nay, remembering that 
whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil. Pardon 
us for all our sins of the tongue in time past, and do 
thou so open our lips through all the time to come 
that our mouth shall show forth thy praise; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 



44 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

Jfor a Hfopful &eltgton 

ALMIGHTY GOD, at whose right hand are 
■**■ pleasures forevermore; we pray thee to make our 
religion one of joy and brightness. Dispel from our 
minds all doubt and gloom, that as thy redeemed and 
forgiven children we may evermore rejoice. Grant 
that day by day our lips may be singing thy praises, 
and our hearts be gladdened in holy anticipation of 
the life that knows no ending; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

Cfjat 3 Map Wt a Cfulb of tfie Higftt 

BLESSED art thou, O Lord our God, the God of 
our fathers, who turnest the shadow of death into 
the morning; who hast lightened mine eyes, that I 
sleep not in death. O Lord, blot out as a night-mist 
mine iniquities. Scatter my sins as a morning cloud. 
Grant that I may become a child of the light, and of 
the day. Vouchsafe to keep me this day without sin. 
Uphold me when I am falling, and lift me up when 
I am down. Preserve this day from any evil of mine, 
and me from the evils of the day. Let this day add 
some knowledge, or good deed, to yesterday. O let 
me hear thy loving-kindness in the morning, for in 
thee is my trust. Teach me to do the thing that 
pleaseth thee, for thou art my God. Let thy loving 
Spirit lead me forth into the land of righteousness. 

Amen. — Lancelot Andrewes (i 555-1626). 

"rlforgtbe Mt Mv &>iv&* f 

FORGIVE me my sins, O Lord, forgive me the sins 
of my youth and the sins of mine age, the sins 
of my soul, and the sins of my body, my secret and 
my whispering sins, my presumptuous and my crying 
sins, the sins that I have done to please myself, and 
the sins that I have done to please others. Forgive 
me those sins which I know, and those sins which I 
know not; forgive them, O Lord, forgive them all 

of thy great goodness. Amen. —Private Devotions, 1560. 



PERSONAL INTERCESSIONS 45 

tfov a Mtaxt &tgf)t fcoitfj <^ob 

OLORD, who hast mercy upon all, take away from 
me my sins, and mercifully kindle in me the 
fire of thy Holy Spirit. Take away from me the heart 
of stone, and give me a heart of flesh, a heart to love 
and adore thee, a heart to delight in thee, to follow 
and to enjoy thee, for Christ's sake. Amen. 

— Saint Ambrose {340-397). 

GRANT, we beseech thee, Almighty God, unto us 
who know that we are weak, and who trust in 
thee because we know that thou art strong, the glad- 
some help of thy loving-kindness, both here in time 
and hereafter in eternity. Amen. —Roman Breviary. 

Jfor tfje Jfrutts of tfje Spirit 

O ETERNAL FATHER, help me, I beseech thee, 
to bring forth in my life the fruits of the Spirit; 
the fruit of Love, that I may love thee above all 
things, and all others in thee and for thy sake; the 
fruit of Joy, that I may find thy service my delight; 
the fruit of Peace, that, pardoned and accepted through 
thy mercy, I may repose in thy love; the fruit of 
Long-suffering, that I may bear, with patient sub- 
mission to thy will, all crosses and afflictions; the 
fruit of Gentleness, that I may subdue all risings of 
temper, and take calmly and sweetly all trials and 
provocations; the fruit of Meekness, that I may for- 
give freely all who may hurt me either by word or 
deed, and endure with patience all that may be laid 
upon me ; the fruit of Temperance, that I may restrain 
all my desires, bringing them into subjection in all 
things to thy holy will. Amen. 

O MERCIFUL GOD, fill our hearts, we pray thee, 
with the graces of thy Holy Spirit, with love, 
joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 
meekness, temperance. Teach us to love those who 
hate us; to pray for those who despitefully use us; 
that we may be the children of thee, our Father, who 



46 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

makest thy sun to shine on the evil and on the good, 
and sendest rain on the just and on the unjust. 

— Anselm (1033-nog). 

Jfor &race to litie 

OGOD, who, by the example of thy dear Son hast 
warned us that we should work thy works while 
it is day, before the night cometh, when no man can 
work; keep us from sloth and idleness, and from the 
misuse of those talents which thou hast committed 
to our trust. Enable us to perform the several duties 
of our state and calling v/ith such care and diligence 
that our work may never be reproved in thy sight; 
and forasmuch as the needful business of this life is 
apt to steal away our hearts from thee, give us grace 
to remember that we have a Master in heaven, and 
to do everything in singleness of heart, as unto thee 
and not unto men, that of thee we may receive the 
reward of the inheritance which thou hast promised 
in thy Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. 

OGOD, by whom the meek are guided in judgment, 
and light riseth up in darkness for the godly; 
grant us, in all our doubts and uncertainties, the grace 
to ask what thou wouldest have us to do; that the 
Spirit of Wisdom may save us from all false choices, 
and that in thy light we may see light, and in thy 
straight path may not stumble; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

ALMIGHTY GOD, unto whom all souls belong; 
make us, we beseech thee, sober-minded, truth- 
ful, reverent, and pure in heart. Teach us to shun 
all bad examples and to love every honest way; give 
us grace to overcome the sin that doth so easily beset 
us; let no unhallowed words pollute the tongues 
which thou hast made to praise and bless thee, no evil 
action defile the bodies which thou hast taught us are 
the temples of thy presence. From strong and sudden 
temptation, from pride and selfishness, from hatred, 
malice and envy, from wicked thoughts and careless 






PERSONAL INTERCESSIONS 47 

words, from hindering others in good or tempting 
them to evil, deliver and save us, O Lord our God* 
We ask it in the name of thy dear Son, our Saviour, 
Jesus Christ. Amen. 

jfor <§race to Bte 

OGOD, who holdest our souls in life, and hast 
appointed unto all men once to die; grant that 
when our last hour cometh, and the time of our 
earthly sojourn is ended, we may neither be troubled 
nor dismayed; but being satisfied with thy goodness 
and mercy, we may commend our spirits to thy care; 
and firmly trusting in the merits of thy Son, our 
Saviour, we may obtain a peaceful death and a happy 
entrance into glory. And this we beg for the sake 
of him who died for us that we might live with thee 
forever. Amen. 



PRAYERS FOR THE MINISTRIES OF THE 
CHURCH 

Jfor tfje Cfjurcf) 

tfov tfje Cfmrcfj of Cfcrtet {Eijrougfjcut tyt Wovlts 






T ET us pray for the churches throughout the world, 
■" for their truth, unity, and stability; that in all, 
charity may flourish, and truth may live. For our own 
church, that what is lacking in it may be supplied, and 
what is unsound corrected^; for the sake of Jesus 
Christ, our only Lord and Saviour. Amen. 

— Bishop Andreives, A. D. IS55- 

OTHOU who hast founded a church for thyself, 
and hast promised to dwell in it forever; en- 
lighten and sanctify it, we beseech thee, by thy Word 
and Spirit; endue all pastors and ministers with thy 
grace, that they may with joy and assurance guard 
and feed thy sheep, looking to the great Bishop and 
Shepherd of souls. Bless all who serve thee in the 
rule of thy church; in the care of thy poor; in the 
ministry of thy praise; and in the teaching of the 
young. Strengthen them in their labors; give them 
courage to witness a good confession; and cause thy 
church to increase more and more, that every knee 
may bow before thee, and every tongue confess that 
Jesus Christ is Lord. Amen. 

O ALMIGHTY GOD, who hast built thy church 
upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, 
Jesus Christ himself being the chief Corner Stone, 
grant that by the operation of the Holy Spirit all 
Christians may be so joined together in unity of 
Spirit, and in the bond of peace, that they may be an 

48 



FOR THE MINISTRIES OF THE CHURCH 49 

holy temple acceptable unto thee. And especially to 
this congregation present give the abundance o£ thy 
grace, that with one heart they may desire the pros- 
perity of thy holy universal Church, and with one 
mouth may profess the faith once delivered to the 
saints. Defend them from the sins of false doctrine 
and the spirit of strife ; let not the foot of pride come 
nigh to hurt them, nor the hand of the ungodly to cast 
them down. And grant that the course of this world 
may be so peaceably ordered by thy governance, that 
thy church may joyfully serve thee in all godly quiet- 
ness; that so they may walk in the ways of truth and 
peace, and at last be numbered with thy saints in 
glory everlasting; through thy merits, O blessed 
Jesus, thou gracious Bishop and Shepherd of our 
souls, who art, with the Father and the Holy Ghost, 
one God, world without end. Amen. 

OGOD, Holy Spirit, Sanctifier of the faithful, visit, 
we pray thee, this congregation with thy love and 
favor; enlighten their minds more and more with the 
light of the everlasting gospel; graft in their hearts 
a love of the truth; increase in them true religion; 
nourish them with all goodness; and of thy great 
mercy keep them in the same, O blessed Spirit, whom, 
with the Father and the Son together, we worship and 
glorify as one God, world without end. Amen. 

OGOD, the Sovereign Good of the soul, who re- 
quirest the hearts of all thy children; deliver 
us from all sloth in thy work, all coldness in thy 
cause; and grant us by looking unto thee to rekindle 
our love, and by waiting upon thee to renew our 
strength; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

OGOD of all power, who hath called from death 
the great Pastor of the sheep, our Lord Jesus, 
comfort and defend the flock which he hath redeemed 
by the blood of the eternal testament; increase the 
number of true preachers; mitigate and lighten the 
hearts of the ignorant; relieve the pains of such as 



50 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

be afflicted, but especially of those that suffer for the 
testimony of the truth, by the power of our Lord 

JeSUS Christ. Ameil. -r-John Knox, A. D. 1505. 

LORD, we beseech thee to keep thy household the 
church in continual godliness; that through thy 
protection it may be free from all adversities, and 
devoutly given to serve thee in good works, to the 
glory of thy name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

Jfor tfje Winitv of (gob's; people 

"®(mt Zf)tv mi ffiav J®t <&*&" 

HOLY FATHER, keep them in thy name which 
thou hast given me, that they may be one, even 
as we are. While I was with them, I kept them in 
thy name which thou hast given me: and I guarded 
them, and not one of them perished, but the son of 
perdition; that the Scripture might be fulfilled. But 
now I come to thee; and these things I speak in the 
world, that they may have my joy made full in them- 
selves. I have given them thy word; and the world 
hated them, because they are not of the world, even 
as I am not of the world. I pray not that thou 
shouldest take them from the world, but that thou 
shouldest keep them from the evil one. They are not 
of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify 
them in the truth: thy word is truth. As thou didst 
send me into the world, even so sent I them into the 
world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that 
they themselves also may be sanctified in truth. 
Neither for these only do I pray, but for them also 
that believe on me through their word; that they may 
all be one; even as thou, Father, art in me, and I in 
thee, that they also may be in us: that the world may 
believe that thou didst send me. —John 17. n-21. 

OGOD, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, our 
only Saviour, the Prince of Peace; give us grace 
seriously to lay to heart the great dangers we are in 



PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP 51 

by our unhappy divisions. Take away from us all 
hatred and prejudice, and whatsoever else may hinder 
us from godly union and concord ; that as there is 
but one body, and one Spirit, and one hope of our 
calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God 
and Father of us all, so we may henceforth be all of 
one heart, and of one soul, united in one holy bond 
of truth and peace, of faith and charity, and may with 
one mind and one mouth glorify thee; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Book of Common Prayer, A. D. 1626. 

OLORD GOD, the one God, make thy people one, 
Whatever be our differences, even in matters 
essential, may we ever realize that we are all one in 
Christ Jesus. Let not Satan break the blessed bond 
of union between believers, but may it be increasingly 
strengthened in our own experience, and in all thy 
people everywhere; for the sake of Jesus Christ our 

Redeemer. Amen. —Rev. Benjamin Jenks, A. D. 1646. 

preparation for ^or^fnp 

3fox tfje Spirit of Wov$fyi$ 
OUR GOD, we humbly beseech thee to purify 



O 



our hearts from all vain and worldly and sinful 
thoughts, and so prepare our souls to worship thee 
this day acceptably, with reverence and godly fear. 
O Lord, set our affection on things above all the day 
long, and give us grace to receive thy Word which 
we shall hear this day, into honest and good hearts, 
and bring forth fruit with patience. Hear us, O God, 
for the sake of Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen. 

LET thy Holy Spirit accompany us to the place of 
thy public worship, making us serious and atten- 
tive, and raising our minds from the thoughts of this 
world to the consideration of the next, that we may 
fervently join in the prayers and praises of thy 
church, and listen to our duty with honest hearts, 
in order to practice it ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 



52 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

jfor a pegging on tfje g>erbiceg of tfje Bap 

TWTERCIFUL FATHER, we commend to thee the 
«*■" worship and ordinances of this day. Bless all 
our souls, keep our hearts and thoughts in thy house 
of prayer. Speak to us through thy Holy Word, 
which liveth and abideth forever. Pour the continual 
dew of thy blessing on all thy ministers; for the sake 
of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

W$t Consecration of tfje ^>aooatf) 

OLORD, our heavenly Father, at the beginning of 
another week we come to thee for help and light. 
Grant, we beseech thee, that we may hallow this day 
of rest to thy service, and find in thee all peace and 
strength. Quicken our devotion that we may serve 
thee in spirit and in truth, and lay a good foundation 
for our coming work. Be with us in all the public 
services of thy day, that we may join in them with 
heart and soul, and receive the blessing which thou 
hast promised to all who sincerely pray to thee and 
faithfully hear thy word. This we ask for the sake 
of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

"Wfyttt &too or 3rf)ree are <&atfjereb GDogetfjer tn fflp J^ame" 

OLORD GOD, who hast taught us to pray all to- 
gether, and hast promised to hear the united 
voices of two or three invoking thy name; hear now, 
O Lord, the prayers of thy servants unto their salva- 
tion, and give us in this world knowledge of thy truth, 
and in the world to come life everlasting; for the 
sake of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Armenian Liturgy, A. D. 370. 

Collect for g>unbaj> Jfflormng 

MOST Gracious God, who strengthenest the weak 
and renewest the weary, and givest to thy faith- 
ful servants a peace which the world can neither give 
nor take away, may this season of heavenly rest be 
entirely free from sin, as from labor and worldly 
care ; and let thy grace abound in our hearts that we 
may be in the Spirit on this Lord's Day. Amen. 



PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP 53 

GEfjanfeggttJins for tfje Bap 

OGOD, glory be to thy name for this day. Make it 
a day of reverent joy, and holy gladness of heart* 
and so bring home to us the greatness of our spiritual 
mercies in Christ, that we may be filled with love and 
praise, and evermore give thanks unto thee; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

jfor a g>unoaj> ^legging 

\X7E praise thee, O Lord our God, for this thy holy 
W day. Grant that it may be to us a day of rest 
from worldly toil and care. Refresh our souls with 
thy heavenly gifts. Enable us to worship thee in 
thy house of prayer, in spirit, and in truth. Bless 
the ministers of thy church, especially those who 
labor in this place; make thy word in their mouth 
powerful to the conversion of sinners, and to the 
building up of thy people in the faith of thy blessed 
Son. Grant that all who. confess thy holy name may 
be of one heart, and of one soul, united in one holy 
bond of truth and peace, of faith and love, and may 
with one mind and one mouth glorify thee; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Jfor Gflboge Who Jforget tfje Bap 

OGOD, grant that they who, neglecting thy wor- 
ship on thy holy day, give themselves rather to 
the business or pleasures of the world, may turn to 
thee while it is yet time, so that they perish not when 
the world and its lust shall have passed away, but 
being found in him who died for us and rose again, 
may be saved by grace ; through the same Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

{Efjat "Wt May l&t Boers; of tfje Wovo ano J£ot fearers" <0tuy 

OLORD GOD of our life, who hast given us the 
rest of this sacred day, grant that the benediction 
of its restfulness may abide upon us throughout the 
week. Enable us to carry the influence of its conse- 



54 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

cration into all that we do; let the praises o£ our lips 
rendered to thee this day become praise in our lives. 
May the power o£ thy love be with us in every duty, 
that by pureness, by knowledge, and by tenderness 
we may glorify thee ; through Jesus Christ. Amen. 

draper WLpon entering Cfjurcfj 

OLORD, help me to worship thee in spirit and in 
truth. Make me attentive to thy word, and bless 
my soul for my Redeemer's sake. Amen. 

OPEN thou, O Lord, my lips to praise thee; drive 
from my heart evil affections and from my mind 
wandering thoughts, that with devotion I may join 
in this service, and so glorify thee on earth as to be 
heard by thee in heaven; through Jesus Christ thy 
Son. Amen. 

Jfor a blessing on IBikint WoxsiUp 

A S for us, we will go into thy house in the multi- 
■**■ tude of thy mercies; and in thy fear will we wor- 
ship toward thy holy temple. Hear the voice of our 
supplications when we cry unto thee. We have 
thought of thy loving-kindness, O God, in the midst 
of thy temple. Be mindful, O Lord, of those who will 
be present with us, and pray with us this day; be 
mindful of those also who upon good cause are 
absent; and have mercy upon them and us according 
to the multitude of thy mercies, O Lord. Let, O 
Lord, we beseech thee, thine eyes be open, and let 
thine ears be attentive unto the prayer which thy 
servant prayeth toward thy holy place, which is called 
by thy name; for the sake of Jesus Christ, thy Son, 

Our Lord. Amen. — Bishop Andreives, A. D. 1555. 

O HEAVENLY FATHER, forasmuch as none can 
come to receive thy Holy Word, except thou 
draw them by thy gracious inspiration, we beseech 
thee to pour out thy Holy Spirit upon those who wor- 
ship to-day in thy holy house of prayer, that their 



PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP 55 

hearts may be inclined favorably to receive, stead- 
fastly to retain, and obediently to perform, whatso- 
ever shall be taught them in thy name; and that they 
may manifest, in the dedication to thee of their lives 
and substance, that thankfulness which they owe to 
thee for thy redeeming love; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

O ALMIGHTY GOD, from whom every good 
prayer cometh, and who pourest out on all who 
desire it the spirit of grace and supplication, deliver 
us, when we draw nigh to thee, from coldness of heart 
and wanderings of mind, that with steadfast thoughts 
and kindled affections we may worship thee in spirit 
and in truth; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

before ^>erbue in Cfmrcfj 

ALMIGHTY GOD, our heavenly Father, from 
■*** whom every good prayer cometh; pour out thy 
Spirit upon me and upon all who draw near to thee 
in this holy place, that we may be delivered from all 
coldness of heart and wanderings of mind. Bless to 
us the ministry of thy servants, and grant that we 
may all worthily show forth thy praise, humbly learn 
thy Word, and render our thanks for all thy mercies 
to us; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Wipon 3Leafcnng Cfmrcf) 

OLORD, forgive all my sins, and bless the services 
in which I have been engaged, to my spiritual 
and everlasting good; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

GRANT, we beseech thee, Almighty God, that the 
words which we have heard this day with our 
outward ears may, through thy grace, be so grafted 
inwardly in our hearts that they may bring forth in 
us the fruit of good living, to the honor and praise 
of thy name, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Gelasian Sacramentary, A. D. 494* 



56 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

General drapers for Common Wovgfyp 

gboratton 
I 
"PATERNAL and ever-blessed God, we bow down 
-" before thy divine majesty, adoring thee, the Lord 
of heaven and earth, of whom and through whom and 
to whom are all things; unto whom be glory for ever 
and ever. Amen. 

n 

"LJOLY, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty; there 
■" is none like unto thee, who hast set thy glory 
above the heavens. Praise waiteth for thee in Zion, 
and unto thee shall the vow be performed. Hearken 
to the adoration of thy people, v/e beseech thee, and 
let the words of our mouths and the meditations of 
our hearts be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord our 
strength and our Redeemer. Amen. 

m 

OGOD, whose being and perfections are infinite, 
eternal, and unchangeable, the same yesterday, to- 
day, and for ever: thou art glorious in holiness, full 
of love and compassion, abundant in grace and truth. 
All thy works praise thee in all places of thy do- 
minion: and thy Son hath glorified thee upon earth. 
Therefore we bow down and adore thee, Father, Son, 
and Holy Ghost, one God, blessed for evermore. 
Amen. 

IV 

BLESSING, and honor, and glory, and power, be 
unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto 
the Lamb forever and forever. Amen. 

gtecrtpttons of $ratee 
I 

NOW unto Him that is able to do exceeding abun- 
dantly above all that we ask or think, according 
to the power that worketh in us; unto him be glory 
in the church by Christ Jesus, throughout all ages, 
world without end. Amen. 



GENERAL PRAYERS 57 

11 

NOW unto Him that is able to keep you from fall- 
ing, and to present you faultless before the pres- 
ence of his glory with exceeding joy; to the only 
wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion 
and power, both now and ever. Amen. 

ill 

UNTO Him that loved us, and washed us from our 
sins in his own blood, and hath made us kings and 
priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and 
dominion for ever and ever. Amen. 

IV 

NOW unto the blessed and only Potentate, the King 
of kings, and Lord of lords; who only hath im- 
mortality, dwelling in the light which no man can 
approach unto; whom no man hath seen or can see: 
to him be honor and power everlasting. Amen. 



GLORY be to God on high, and on earth peace, 
good will toward men. We praise thee, we bless 
thee, we worship thee, we glorify thee, we give 
thanks to thee for thy great glory. O Lord God, 
heavenly King, God the Father Almighty. O Lord, 
the only begotten Son, Jesus Christ; O Lord God, 
Lamb of God, Son of the Father, that takest away 
the sins of the world, have mercy upon us. Thou that 
takest away the sins of the world, receive our prayer. 
Thou that sittest at the right hand of God the Father, 
have mercy upon us. For thou only art holy, thou 
only art the Lord. Thou only, O Christ, with the 
Holy Ghost, art most high in the glory of God the 
Father. Amen. 

I 

ALMIGHTY GOD, Father of all mercies, we thine 
unworthy servants do give thee most humble and 
hearty thanks for all thy goodness and loving kind- 



58 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

ness to us and to all men. We bless thee for our 
creation, preservation, and all the blessings of this 
life, but, above all, for thine inestimable love in the 
redemption of the world by our Lord Jesus Christ, 
for the means of grace, and for the hope of glory. 
And, we beseech thee, give us that due sense of all 
thy mercies, that our hearts may be unfeignedly thank- 
ful, and that we may show forth thy praise, not only 
with our lips, but in our lives, by giving up ourselves 
to thy service, and by walking before thee in holiness 
and righteousness all our days; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord, to whom, with thee and the Holy Ghost, be 
all honor and glory, world without end. Amen. 

n 

ALMIGHTY and most merciful Father, from whom 
cometh every good and perfect gift; we give thee 
praise and hearty thanks for all thy mercies: 

For thy goodness that hath created us; thy bounty 
that hath sustained us; thy fatherly discipline that 
hath chastened and corrected us; thy patience that 
hath borne with us; thy love that hath redeemed us. 
[Here any special mercy may he named.] 

Grant unto us with thy gifts a heart to love thee, 
and enable us to show our thankfulness for all thy 
benefits by giving up ourselves to thy service, and 
cheerfully submitting in all things to thy blessed will; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Ill 

MOST heartily do we thank thee, O Lord, for all 
thy mercies of every kind, and for thy loving 
care over all thy creatures. We bless thee for the 
gift of life, for thy protection round about us, for thy 
guiding hand upon us, and for the many tokens of thy 
love within us; especially for the saving knowledge 
of thy dear Son, our Redeemer; and for the living 
presence of thy Spirit, our Comforter. We thank 
thee for friendship and duty, for good hopes and 
precious memories, for the joys that cheer us and for 
the trials that teach us to trust in thee. In all these 
things, our heavenly Father, make us wise unto a right 



GENERAL PRAYERS 59 

use of thy great benefits; and so direct us that in 
word and deed we may render an acceptable thanks- 
giving unto thee, in Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen. 



M 



IV 
OST gracious God, the Fountain of all blessing; 
thou hast opened thy hand to fill us ^ with all 
good things: thou dost govern us as a King, thou 
feedest us like a shepherd, thou keepest us beneath 
the shadow of thy wings in safety, thou providest for 
us as a father, thou lovest us as a friend and thinkest 
on us perpetually, and art exceeding merciful to all 
that fear thee; and unto thee, O Lord, we ascribe the 
praise and honor of our redemption. Amen. 



TWTOST glorious God, accept, through thy beloved 
"■*• Son, our thanksgivings for thine unspeakable love 
and goodness. Thou art the Father of mercies, and 
God of all consolation, full of compassion, forgiving 
iniquity, transgression, and sin. We thank thee that 
thou hast founded thy church upon the apostles and 
prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief Corner 
Stone. We thank thee that thou hast committed to 
thy ministers the Word of reconciliation. Continue 
thy loving-kindness unto us, that we may rejoice and 
be glad in thee all our days. Guide us by thy counsel, 
and afterward receive us to thy glory; where, with 
all the blessed host of heaven, we may behold, adore, 
and perfectly and joyfully praise thee, our most glori- 
ous Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier, for ever and 
ever. Amen. 

Confession 



OLORD, our heavenly Father, who of thy great 
mercy hast promised forgiveness of sins to all 
them that repent and turn unto thee, have mercy upon 
us; deliver us from all our evils, strengthen us in ail 
goodness, and bring us unto everlasting life. We 
confess, O heavenly Father, that in thought, word, and 
work we have sinned against heaven and in thy sight, 



60 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

and are not worthy to be called thy children. But 
thou, O Lord, art good, and ready to forgive, and 
plenteous in mercy to all them that call upon thee. 
Lead us, O Lord, to true repentance. Search our 
hearts by the light o£ thy truth, and renew a right 
spirit within us, that we may be enabled to see and 
acknowledge our evils, and to shun them as sins 
against thee, and in the faithful and diligent perform- 
ance of our duties may learn to do justly, and love 
mercy, and walk humbly with thee our God. This we 
ask in Jesus Christ. Amen. 

II 

MOST holy and merciful Father, we acknowledge 
and confess in thy presence: our sinful nature 
prone to evil and slothful in good, and all our short- 
comings and offences against thee. Thou alone 
knowest how often we have sinned: in wandering 
from thy ways, in wasting thy gifts, in forgetting thy 
love. But thou, O Lord, have pity upon us, who are 
ashamed and sorry for all wherein we have displeased 
thee. Teach us to hate our errors, cleanse us from 
our secret faults, and forgive our sins, for the sake 
of thy dear Son our Saviour. And O most holy and 
loving Father, send thy purifying grace into our 
hearts, we beseech thee, that we may henceforth live 
in thy light and walk in thy ways, according to the 
commandments of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

ill 

HAVE mercy upon us, O God, according to thy 
loving-kindness; according to the multitude of 
thy tender mercies, blot out our transgressions. For 
we acknowledge our transgressions, and our sins are 
ever before us. We confess that we have sinned 
against thee in thought, word,, and deed, and are not 
worthy to be called thy children. But thou, O Lord, 
art good, and ready to forgive, and plenteous in mercy 
to all them that call upon thee. To the broken in 
heart thou hast promised to be near, and to save such 
as be of a contrite spirit. Grant us a spirit of sincere 
contrition, that, searching our hearts by the light of 



GENERAL PRAYERS 61 

thy truth, we may be enabled to see and acknowledge 
our evils, and to shun them as sins against thee. And 
may we be thus delivered, O Lord, from all idolatry 
of self and the world, from all pride and self-will, 
from all prejudice, blindness, and hardness of heart, 
from covetousness and ambition, from all feelings 
of animosity, resentment, and contempt for those 
whom we dislike. Amen. 

IV 

ALMIGHTY GOD, our heavenly Father, we are 
sinners before thee, the righteous and holy God; 
we have forfeited all claim to thy favor, and need the 
assurance of thy forgiveness. Our hearts are ever 
prone to evil, and we need thy blessed Spirit to purify 
our secret thoughts and motives. We bless thee for 
the sure promise that, if any man sin, we have an 
Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the Righteous ; 
and that, if 'we confess our sins, he is faithful and 
just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from 
all unrighteousness. Lord, cleanse thou the thoughts 
of our hearts by thy Holy Spirit. Create in us a 
clean heart, and renew within us a right spirit. We 
pray thee to keep us from temptation, from all decep- 
tion and envy, from covetousness and evil desire. 
Give to us wisdom, O Lord, in our daily affairs, and 
grace to trust thee in all things. O Lord, we place 
ourselves and our concerns in thy hands for the day 
on which we have now entered. May we in all things 
live as thine, and live in thy love! And this, our 
morning sacrifice of prayer and praise, we offer 
through our great High Priest, who ever liveth to 
make intercession for us. Amen. 

petition 

General 3fa*e*ce££ion 

i 

A LMIGHTY GOD, our Father, our Hope, and our 

**■ Deliverer, we humbly beseech thee to save us 

who trust in thee; to deliver us from our enemies, 



62 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

to save us from our sins, and to bring us to thine 
eternal kingdom, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Re- 
member not, Lord, our offenses, nor the offenses of 
our forefathers; spare us, good Lord, spare thy 
people, whom thou hast redeemed with thy most 
precious blood, and be not angry with us forever. 
From all evil and mischief; from sin, from the crafts 
and assaults of the devil; from thy wrath, and from 
everlasting damnation; from all blindness of heart; 
from pride, vainglory, and hypocrisy; from envy, 
hatred, and malice, and all uncharitableness, good 
Lord, deliver us! In all time of our tribulation; in 
all time of our health; in the hour of death; and in 
the Day of Judgment, good Lord, deliver us! That 
it may please thee to bring into the way of truth all 
such as have erred and are deceived. That it may 
please thee to strengthen such as do stand, and to 
comfort and help the weak-hearted, and to raise up 
them that fall, and finally to beat down Satan under 
our feet. We beseech thee to hear- us, through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 



OGOD, who art loving unto every man, and whose 
mercy is over all thy works, we beseech thee to 
extend thy mercy and compassion to the whole race 
of mankind, that their souls may be saved in the great 
day of the Lord Jesus Christ. Bless our native land, 
turn from us those national judgments which we have 
deserved, put an end to profaneness, intemperance, 
impiety, indifference of thee. Bless thy holy church 
throughout the world, pour thy divine grace on thy 
ministers, and grant to them all zeal, wisdom, and 
piety in their ministry. Bless all thy missionary serv- 
ants, and grant them grace to lead to the cross of 
Christ those who know thee not, and who are lying 
in darkness and in the shadow of death. Bless, O 
Lord, the work of Christian education, that the young 
may be trained up in the way they should go, and 
that every child may be imbued with early piety. 
Bless the widow and the orphan, the sick and the 
afflicted, the injured and the dying. Comfort them, 



GENERAL PRAYERS 63 

O Lord, in their grief and sorrow, for thou only, O 
Saviour, canst wipe away all tears from their eyes, 
and be an ever-present help in trouble. Bless all 
those who are in any way connected with us, our rela- 
tions and friends. Wherever this day we can send a 
loving thought, there send, we humbly beseech thee, 
a Father's blessing. Hear us, O God, for the sake of 
Jesus Christ thy Son our Saviour. Amen. 

Ill 

OGOD, the Creator and Preserver of all mankind, 
we humbly beseech thee for all sorts and condi- 
tions of men, that thou wouldest be pleased to make 
thy ways known unto them, thy saving health unto 
all nations. More especially we pray for the good 
estate of the universal and holy catholic Church: that 
it may be so guided and governed by thy good Spirit 
that all who profess and call themselves Christians 
may be led into the way of truth, and hold the faith 
in unity of spirit, in the bond of peace, and in right- 
eousness of life. Finally, we commend to thy 
Fatherly goodness all those who are in any way 
afflicted or distressed in mind, body, or estate, that 
it may please thee to comfort and relieve them ac- 
cording to their several necessities; giving them 
patience under their sufferings and a happy issue out 
of all their afflictions; and this we beg for Jesus 
Christ's sake. O Lord, our heavenly Father, almighty 
and everlasting God, who hast safely brought us to 
the beginning of this day, defend us in the same with 
thy mighty power; and grant that this day we fall 
into no sin, neither run into any kind of danger, but 
that all our doings may be ordered by thy governance, 
to do always that which is righteous in thy sight, 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

IV 

OGOD the Father of heaven, O God the Son, Re- 
deemer of the world, O God the Holy Ghost, pro- 
ceeding from the Father and the Son, have mercy 
upon us and receive our prayer! By the mystery of 



64 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

thy holy incarnation; by thy holy nativity and circum- 
cision; by thy baptism, fasting, and temptation; by 
thine agony and bloody sweat; by thy cross and pas- 
sion; by thy precious death and burial; by thy glori- 
ous resurrection and ascension; and by the coming 
of the Holy Ghost, good Lord, deliver us! In all 
time of our tribulation; in all time of our prosperity; 
in the hour of death and in the day of judgment, good 
Lord, deliver us ! And for every victory in this 
present time over our adversaries, and for the final 
victory which thou shalt win for us over sin and 
death and the grave, we will praise thee forever, 
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen. 



LORD JESUS, we intercede with thee for the con- 
version of all in this parish, who are living in 
willful sin and godlessness. Turn them, O Lord, 
and they shall be turned. Take from them the heart 
of stone, and give them the heart of flesh. Rouse 
them to see their peril, and to flee from the wrath 
to come. Hear, O Lord, our special intercession for 
those near and dear to ourselves. Make us also to 
labor as we pray, and may each one of us be an instru- 
ment in the salvation of some one soul. Hear us, O 
Saviour, who livest and reignest with the Father and 
the Holy Spirit, one God, evermore. Amen. 

VI 

ALMIGHTY GOD, Fountain of wisdom, goodness 
and love, we ask for this church the consecration 
of thy presence and spirit. May all thy children be 
ever welcome here. Hither may the little ones love 
to come, and here may young men and maidens be 
strengthened for the battle of life. Here may the 
strong renew their power, and hither may age turn its 
footsteps to find the peace of God and light at even- 
tide. Here may the poor and needy find friends. Here 
may the tempted find succor, the sorrowing find com- 
fort, and the bereaved catch the vision of their loved 
ones in the eternal home. Here may those who doubt 
have their better hopes confirmed. Here may the 



GENERAL PRAYERS 65 

careless be awakened to their folly and sin, and be 
brought to timely repentance. Here may thy faithful 
people make manifest the church of the living God, 
the pillar and ground of the truth, and may this house 
be the place where thine honor dwelleth, and the 
whole earth be filled with thy glory. Amen. 

VII 

ETERNAL, Holy, Almighty, whose name is Love; 
we are met in solemn company to seek thy face, 
and in spirit and truth to worship thy name. We 
come in deep humility, since thou art so high and 
exalted, and because thou beholdest the proud afar 
off. We come in tender penitence, for the contrite 
heart is thy only dwelling. We come in the name and 
spirit of Jesus to make our wills one with thine; to 
abandon our lonely and selfish walk for solemn com- 
munion with thee, to put an end to sin by welcoming 
to our hearts thy Holy Presence. Deeper than we 
have known, enter, thou Maker of our souls; clearer 
than we have ever seen, dawn thy glory on our sight. 
Light the flame upon the altar, call forth the incense 
of prayer, waken the song of praise, and manifest thy- 
self to all. Amen. 

VIII 

O CHRIST, our God, remember thy strong and thy 
weak ones, great and small, men and women, for 
good. Remember the righteous who worship thee by 
faith, and bestow on them the blessing of those who 
not having seen, believed. Remember and bless all 
who worship thee by prayer, and reveal thy gracious 
presence unto them. Remember any overthrown 
through frailty, raise them up and perfect thy strength 
in their weakness. Remember the bereaved in their 
anguish, and make their latter end better than their 
beginning. Furnish the fallen with love, and accept 
their love. Grant to sufferers faith, and reward their 
faith. Remember the despised, the overlooked, the 
misunderstood, reserving mercy for them in the day 
of thy justice. Remember munificent hands to refill 
them, and generous hearts to spiritualize them. Re- 



66 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

member us all, O God, for good ; through Jesus Christ. 
Amen. 

Special Mttmg$ion& for Common Wov^ip 

jfor tfje Cfjurcf) 

OLORD GOD, heavenly Father, pour out, we be- 
seech thee, thy Holy Spirit upon thy faithful 
people. Keep them steadfast in thy grace and truth, 
protect and comfort them in all temptations, defend 
them against all enemies of thy Word, and bestow 
upon Christ's church militant thy saving peace; 
through the same, thy Son, our Lord, who liveth and 
reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost ever, one God, 
world without end. Amen. 

O ALMIGHTY GOD, who hast built thy church 
upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, 
Jesus Christ himself being the chief Corner Stone, 
grant that, by the operation of the Holy Ghost, all 
Christians may be so joined together in unity of 
spirit, and in the bond of peace, that they may be an 
holy temple acceptable unto thee. And especially to 
this congregation present give the abundance of thy 
grace; that with one heart they may desire the pros- 
perity of thy holy church, and with one mouth may 
profess the faith once delivered to the saints. De- 
fend them from the sins of heresy and schism, let not 
the foot of pride come nigh to hurt them, nor the hand 
of the ungodly to cast them down. And grant that 
the course of this world may be so peaceably ordered 
by thy governance, that thy church may joyfully serve 
thee in all godly quietness; that so they may walk 
in the ways of truth and peace, and at last be num- 
bered with thy saints in glory everlasting; through 
thy merits, O blessed Jesus, thou gracious Bishop and 
Shepherd of our souls, who art with the Father and 
the Holy Ghost one God, world without end. Amen. 

O MERCIFUL GOD, bless thy holy church through- 
out all the world; bless especially the portion of 
it in which we live; make all the members of it sound 



SPECIAL INTERCESSIONS 67 

in faith, and holy in life, that they may truly and 
heartily serve thee. We commend to thy Fatherly 
goodness our relations, friends, and neighbors, and 
all who desire or ought to be specially remembered 
in our prayers. Succor the poor, comfort all in 
trouble, have mercy on the sick and dying, and help 
us by thy grace to prepare ourselves daily for the life 
to come; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

"\X7E beseech thee to hear us, O God, and grant that 
* * all ministers and teachers of religion may be 
so endued with the healthful spirit of thy grace, that 
they may be men of honest mind and simple heart, 
and set forth thy truth, both by their word and life! 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

OLORD, we beseech thee to maintain thy church 
in truth and patience; that her pastors may be 
faithful, her watchmen vigilant, her flock loyal, 'her 
camp united, her war spiritual, her weapons heavenly, 
her lamps burning and shining; and as thy Son Jesus 
Christ hath given so great a price for us, let us not 
count it a hard thing to give up all for him, and to 
spend and be spent for the souls he hath redeemed; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Original source not found. 

jfor, tfje fflini&ttp at ^ome anti gforoab 

MOST blessed Saviour, who hast appointed divers 
orders of men in thy church, look graciously at 
this time upon thy ministering servants. Endue them 
with thy Holy Spirit; make them apt to teach, gentle 
to persuade, and wise to win souls; cheer and com- 
fort them in their labors; feed them with the Bread 
of Life, bless them in their labors, and make them 
willing to spend and be spent for thee. Lord Jesus, 
let thine especial favor rest upon those who are 
preaching thy gospel to the heathen, and those who 
know thee not. Support them amidst all their trials, 
and grant that the word spoken by their mouths may 
have such success, that it may never be spoken in 



68 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

vain. Hasten, Lord, the time when they shall no more 
teach every man his neighbor and every man his 
brother, saying, "Know the Lord, for all shall know 
thee, from the least to the greatest." Grant this for 
thine own name's sake. Amen. 

— Bishop Ashton Oxenden, A. D. 1808. 

OLORD JESUS CHRIST, who didst command thy 
disciples to pray the Lord of the harvest that he 
would send forth laborers into his harvest; we be- 
seech thee graciously to increase the number of faith- 
ful ministers of thy Word, and to send them forth 
among all nations of men, that perishing souls may be 
saved, and the bounds of thy blessed kingdom be 
enlarged. We ask it, O merciful Saviour, for the 
glory of thy name, who livest and reignest with the 
Father and the Holy Ghost, one God, world without 
end. Amen. 

O ALMIGHTY GOD, who hast in thy holy church 
committed to the hands of men the ministry of 
reconciliation, to gather together a great flock in all 
parts of the world, to the eternal praise of thy holy 
name; we humbly beseech thee that thou wilt put it 
in the hearts of many faithful men to seek this sacred 
ministry, appointed for the salvation of mankind; that 
so thy church may rejoice in a due supply of true and 
faithful pastors, and the bounds of thy blessed king- 
dom may be enlarged; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

jfor Cbangeltstrc ^orfe 

INCREASE, O God, the faith and the zeal of all thy 
people, that they may more earnestly desire, and 
more diligently seek, the salvation of their fellow 
men, through the message of thy love in Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Send forth a mighty call unto thy servants 
to preach thy word, and multiply the number of those 
who labor in the gospel, granting unto them a heart 
of love, sincerity of speech, and the power of the 
Holy Ghost, that they may be able to persuade men 



SPECIAL INTERCESSIONS 69 

to forsake sin and turn unto thee. And so bless and 
favor the work of thine evangelists, that multitudes 
may be brought from the kingdom of evil into the 
kingdom of thy dear Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. 
Amen. 

jfor tfje Cfnlbren 

HEAR this, we beseech thee, our prayer for those 
who teach the young, that they may first be 
taught of thee. Bless the children of our Sunday 
schools. Open their hearts to receive thy truth. May 
they feel their need of the renewing influence of the 
Holy Spirit, and be led to holiness of life, without 
which they cannot enter the kingdom of heaven; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Jfor GDfjosie in Affliction 

GOD of all comfort, we commend to thy mercy all 
those upon whom any cross or tribulation is laid; 
the nations who are afflicted with famine, pestilence, 
or war; those of our brethren who suffer persecution 
for the sake of the gospel; all such as are in danger 
by sea or land or in the air, and all persons oppressed 
with poverty, sickness, or any infirmity of body or 
sorrow of mind. We pray particularly for the sick 
and afflicted members of this church, and for those 
who desire to be remembered in our prayers [and for 
any such known to ourselves, whom we name in our 
hearts before thee]. May it please thee to show them 
thy Fatherly kindness, chastening them for their good, 
that their hearts may turn unto thee, and receive per- 
fect consolation, and deliverance from all their 
troubles, for Christ's sake. Amen. 

D£ merciful, O God, unto all who need thy mercy, 
-■-* and let the Angel of thy Presence save the 
afflicted: be thou the Strength of the weary, the Com- 
fort of the sorrowful, the Friend of the desolate, the 
Light of the wandering, the Hope of the dying, the 
Saviour of the lost, for Jesus' sake. Amen. 



70 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

XK/E remember before thee, O Lord, our brethren 
V Y who are tried with sickness: entreating thee 
to increase their faith and patience, to restore them 
to health, if it be thy will, and to give them a happy 
issue out of all their troubles. Have pity on all 
widows and orphans; succor all who are in danger by 
sea and land and air, all prisoners and captives, and 
all who are oppressed with labor and toil. Have 
mercy on those who are tempted, and on those who 
are in darkness and perplexity, and strengthen them 
with thy Holy Spirit. Be present with those who are 
dying, and grant that they may depart in peace, fear- 
ing no evil, and live before thee in thy heavenly king- 
dom; through Christ our Lord. Amen. 

HTor <®nz &ept from Cfcurcf) 

O HEAVENLY FATHER, we pray for a blessing 
upon thy servant, hindered by infirmity from go- 
ing up to the house of prayer. Thine eyes are in every 
place. Thine ear is open unto every prayer that is 
offered in spirit and in truth. O be with thy servant 
in his home, and may he find thy presence ever near 
to him. Thou hast cut off from him the privilege of 
worshiping with his brethren in the congregation. 
Give him much joy and comfort in the prayer of the 
secret closet. And so bless and guide him, O merciful 
Father, that, when the poor, imperfect worship of 
this world is no more, he may join forever in the 
glorious and perfect worship of the heavenly chorus; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

jfor &il Wf)o Bo <^oob to QHjetr jfelloto Mtn 

OGOD, who hast given unto thy servants diversi- 
ties of gifts by the same Spirit, and hast taught 
us by thy holy apostle that all our doings without 
charity are nothing worth; be pleased to bless and 
prosper all who love and serve their fellow men with 
a pure heart fervently, remembering the poor, healing 
the sick, comforting the sorrowful, teaching the ig- 
norant, and lifting up the afflicted; let their prayers 



SPECIAL INTERCESSIONS 71 

and alms come up for a memorial before thee; and 
reward them plentifully with peace; through the 
merits of Jesus Christ our only Saviour. Amen. 

OLORD, grant to us so to love thee with all our 
heart, with all our mind, and all our soul, and 
our neighbor for thy sake; that the grace of charity 
and brotherly love may dwell in us, and all envy, 
harshness, and ill-will may die in us; and fill our 
hearts with feelings of love, kindness, and compassion, 
so that, by constantly rejoicing in the happiness and 
good success of others, by sympathizing with them in 
their sorrows, and putting away all harsh judgments 
and envious thoughts, we may follow thee, who art 
thyself the true and perfect Love; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

O ETERNAL GOD, the very God of peace and all 
consolation, which broughtest again from the 
dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, 
through the everlasting covenant, make us fruitful in 
all good works to do thy will, and work in us that 
which is acceptable in thy sight; sanctify us through- 
out, and keep our whole spirit, soul, and body faultless 
unto the coming of thy dear Son, our Lord Jesus 
Christ. Thou art faithful, O Father, who hast 
promised this, who also shalt bring it to pass; to thee, 
therefore, be given everlasting praise, honor, and 
glory. Amen. 

— The Writer of the Epistle to the Hebrews, Hebrews 13. 20, A. D. 64. 

Jfor 0nx Country 

OGOD, who art the hope of all the ends of the 
earth; remember the whole creation, pity our 
race, and save the world from sin. Protect our land 
from whatever threatens her welfare, so that religion 
and virtue may flourish more and more. Give the 
spirit of wisdom and godly fear to thy servant the 
President of the United States, and all who are in 
authority over us. Give humility to the rich, and 
grace to use their riches to thy glory: bless the people 



72 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

in their callings and families, and be thou a refuge 
to the poor in their distress. Make every home a 
shelter from temptation and a nursery of noble youth; 
take also the homeless beneath thy protection. 
Cleanse and sanctify the church which thou hast 
loved, and reveal the spirit of thy Son through the 
life and service of thy people. Enlighten all who are 
perplexed in faith, support those who are tempted, 
awaken those who sleep, comfort the afflicted, and 
encourage such as are ready to faint. Encompass 
with thy favor all whose lives thou hast bound up 
with our own, and, if there be any who do us wrong, 
remove all bitterness from our hearts while we pray 
for thy blessing upon them. Give peace, O Lord, in 
our time, and unite all hearts in the love of thy dear 
Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

3for tfje (^obemment 1 

ALMIGHTY GOD, the Father of lights, from whom 
cometh every good and perfect gift, send down, 
we beseech thee, upon thy servant, our President, and 
all members of the Cabinet and of Congress, prudence, 
fortitude, temperance, and justice, that alike in fram- 
ing policy and in debate they may be guided by eter- 
nal truth and right; this we ask in the name of thy 
Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Jfor Cfjarttp 

O CREATOR and Preserver of mankind, whose 
will is that not one of thy children should perish, 
but that all should have eternal life; we beseech thee 
for increase of the heavenly gift of charity: that we 
may account nothing common or unclean which thou 
hast made, nor despise those who through ignorance 
and temptation have wandered into sin; nor hate those 
who, following the evil of their own hearts, have 
wrought wickedness in the earth; but help us, rather, 
to imitate the example of thy Son, in patience toward 



1 Note: See Prayers for Our Nation and Rulers, page 188. 



SPECIAL INTERCESSIONS 73 

the infirmities of mankind, and hope for the redemp- 
tion of those who are furthest off from thee; seeking 
ever to overcome hatred with love and evil with good; 
that others may see our good works, and glorify with 
us our Father in heaven; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

jfor ifje Spirit of Wi$bom 

OGOD, by whom the meek are guided in judgment, 
and light riseth up in darkness for the godly, 
grant us, in all our doubts and uncertainties, T:he grace 
to ask what thou wouldst have us to do, that the spirit 
of wisdom may save us from all false choices, and 
that in thy light we may see light and in thy straight 
path may not stumble ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 

Amen. —Scotch Book of Common Order. 

jfor B>anttiiication 

r ORD, sanctify us wholly, that our whole spirit, 
■■— 4 soul, and body may become thy temple. O do 
thou dwell in us, and be thou our God, and we will be 
thy servants, through Jesus Christ. Amen. 

— Bishop Ken, A. D. 1637, 

GIVE ear, O Lord, unto my prayer; and attend to 
the voice of my supplications. 
Teach me thy way, O Lord, I will walk in thy truth: 
unite my heart to fear thy name. 

I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my 
heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore. 
For great is thy mercy toward me. 

— Psalm 86. 6, 11-13. 

&n Cbemng draper 

IGHTEN our darkness, we beseech thee, O Lord, 
-*- / and by thy great mercy defend us from all perils 
and dangers of this night; for the love of thine only 
Son, our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen. 



74 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

Commendation 

ET thy Fatherly hand, we beseech thee, ever be 
■J-* over us; let thy Holy Spirit ever be with us, and 
so lead us in the knowledge and obedience of thy 
Word, that in the end we may obtain everlasting life; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Archbishop Hermann's "Consultatio" A. ZX 1545. 



Jf or preparation for tfje itolp Communion 

before SMp Communion 

'"PAKE away from us, we beseech thee, O Lord, all 
-*- our iniquities, and the spirit of pride and arro- 
gance, which thou resisteth, and fill us with the spirit 
of fear, and give us a contrite and humble heart, which 
thou dost not despise, that we may be enabled with 
pure minds to enter into the Holy of holies; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

<&n Comtng to tfje ILoxb'g Zahit 

OTHOU high and holy One, who hast prepared a 
table for me in the wilderness, and invited me to 
partake of the feast which thou hast spread, help me 
to approach thee in that holy Sacrament with a peni- 
tent, believing, loving heart. O my Saviour, thou who 
art the Bread of Life, nourish my soul, for it needs 
thy constant support. Give me right feelings in com- 
ing to thy table. Put away from me all worldliness, 
and sin, and unbelief. Purify my heart. Fill me with 
love to thee. I look to thy cross for pardon, and to 
thy Holy Spirit for sanctifying grace. I look to thee 
as my great Helper, as my ever-present Lord and 
Friend. Be with me now especially. Manifest thy- 
self to me in the breaking of bread. Draw nearer to 
me than thou hast ever yet done, and make me to feel 
joy and comfort in this thine own ordinance. Bring 
me to thy banqueting-house, and may thy banner over 
me be love. O bless me, strengthen me, feed me, 
refresh me, both now and evermore. Amen. 



PREPARATION FOR HOLY COMMUNION 75 

OLORD JESUS CHRIST, who didst command thy 
disciples to partake of the holy sacrament of thy 
most blessed body and blood, I would in humble 
thankfulness obey thy gracious command. Help me 
to draw near with faith, that I may take it to my 
comfort. May I find in it strength to withstand all 
temptations, and consolation in the midst of every 
trouble. May it bring peace and joy to my heart. 
May I realize thy presence and learn new lessons of 
thy love. Join me anew unto thyself and to thy 
Spiritual Body, the blessed company of all faithful 
people; and to thee, with the Father and the Holy 
Spirit, shall be the glory, world without end. Amen. 



'*3Bo Wfyi& in Remembrance of Mz" 

GRANT, O Lord, we beseech thee, unto thy serv- 
ants who shall this day commemorate in the Holy 
Sacrament the precious death of thy dear Son and 
receive the blessed communion of his body and blood, 
that they may approach thy holy table with true 
repentance, faith, thankfulness, and charity; and be- 
ing filled with thy grace and heavenly benediction, 
may obtain remission of their sins and all other bene- 
fits of his Passion, through the same Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 



T ET this holy communion be to me, O God, a be- 
•" ginning of better things, as if only now I began 
to know thee. Let me now and henceforth forsake 
that which has tempted me. Let me now and hence- 
forth do those things that I have perceived to be of 
thy will for me; by the grace of the Holy Ghost, and 
the intercession of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

OGOD who art Love, grant to thy children who eat 
of thy bread, to bear one another's burdens in 
perfect good will, that thy peace, which passeth un- 
derstanding, may keep our hearts and minds in Christ 
Jesus our Lord. Amen. 



76 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

3* Wt <go from tfje Eorb's; &afcie 

AND now, O loving Father, we go forth, we leave 
■**■ this holy place, to do the work that thou hast 
taught us, to use the strength that thou hast given. 
Be thou with us henceforth in all thy love and power, 
and establish the thing that thou hast wrought in us; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY GOD, who hast given thine only Son 
■*-*■ to die for us, grant that we who have this day 
been united in the communion of his most precious 
body and blood, may be so cleansed from our past 
sins, and so strengthened to follow the example of 
his most holy life, that we may hereafter enjoy ever- 
lasting fellowship with thee in heaven, through Him 
who loved us and gave himself for us, Jesus Christ. 
Amen. 

GRANT, we beseech thee, merciful Lord, that the 
designs of a new and better life, which by thy 
grace we have formed, may not pass away without 
effect. Incite and enable us by thy Holy Spirit to 
improve the time which thou shalt grant us; to avoid 
all evil thoughts, words, and actions, and to do all the 
duties which thou shalt set before us. Hear our 
prayer, O Lord, for the sake of Jesus Christ. Amen. 

— Dr. Samuel Johnson, A. D. 1782. 

GO forth with us, O Lord, from this thy holy house ; 
cast about us the fence which the evil one cannot 
pass, and clothe us in the armor which his darts can- 
not pierce. Send down upon us thy love and light and 
calm, wherein, as in a cloud, we may continually dwell 
and worship thee for evermore; through Jesus Christ 

our Lord. Amen. — William E. Gladstone. 

^raperg for tfje fflintetxp 

jfor ^olp anb Jfattfjful Mini$ttt& 

OTHOU Great Shepherd and Bishop of our souls, 
send down, we beseech thee, upon thy ministers 
thy heavenly blessing. Give them the spirit of wis- 



PRAYERS FOR THE MINISTRY 77 

dom and holiness, courage, patience and charity, zeal 
and watchfulness, that they may faithfully rebuke 
vice, boldly preach and defend the faith, rightly and 
duly administer thy holy sacraments and intercede 
with thee acceptably for thy people. Support and 
comfort them under all sufferings and opposition for 
the cause of thy truth, and grant that after turning 
many to righteousness they may shine as stars, for- 
ever and ever ; for thy tender mercy's sake. Amen. 

jfor #reat <^tfts antr (great PMinesfsf 

REMEMBER all them that do the Lord's work in the 
ministry and conduct of souls. Give them, we 
beseech thee, O Father, great gifts and great holiness, 
that wisely and charitably, diligently and zealously, 
prudently and acceptably, they may be guides to the 
blind, comforters to the sad and weary; that they may 
strengthen the weak and confirm the strong, separate 
the worthless from the precious, boldly rebuke sin, 
patiently suffer for the truth, and be exemplary in 
their lives; that in all their actions and sermons, in 
their discipline and ministrations, they may advance 
the good of souls, and the honor of our Lord Jesus 
Christ; grant this for the sake of thy Son our Lord. 

Amen. — Jeremy Taylor, A. D. 16 13. 

jfor 3fctg;f)t£ougnestf anfc l&x\\t SMtnegg 

r\ LORD GOD of hosts, fill, we beseech thee, all 
v^ those whom thou hast set as pastors over thy 
sheep, with righteousness and true holiness, that by 
their faith and piety they may overcome the wicked 
one, and save the Lord's flock from the danger of his 
assaults; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Gothic Missal, A. D. 1680. 

Jfor jfattfjful anti gfole ffitn 

OLORD, we beseech thee to raise up for the work 
of the ministry faithful and able men, counting 
it all joy to spend and be spent for the sake of thy 



78 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

dear Son, and for the souls for which he shed his 
most precious blood upon the cross, and we pray thee 
to fit them for their holy function by thy bountiful 
grace and heavenly benediction; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the 
Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen. 

— Archbishop E. W. Benson, A. D. 182Q, 



: 



Jfor an Sncreage of Cfjrtst'g Haborerg 

O BLESSED JESUS, Lord of the harvest, we pra: 
thee send forth laborers into thy harvest, and by 
thy Holy Spirit stir the hearts of many that they may 
be ready to spend and be spent in thy service, and if 
it please thee, so to lose their life in this world, that 
they may gather fruit unto life eternal. O Lord, thou 
Lover of souls, hear us, we humbly beseech thee. 

Amen. —Bishop Milman, A. D. 18 16. 

dftje 3Mtor'£ $raperg for J|im£eK ants 
W& people 

OLORD my God, I am not worthy that thou 
shouldst come under my roof; yet thou hast 
honored thy servant with appointing him to stand in 
thy house, and to serve at thy holy altar. To thee 
and to thy service I devote myself, soul, body, and 
spirit, with all their powers and faculties. Fill my 
memory with the words of thy Law; enlighten my 
understanding with the illumination of the Holy 
Spirit; and may all the wishes and desires of my will 
center in what thou hast commanded. And, to make 
me instrumental in promoting the salvation of the 
people now committed to my charge, grant that I may 
faithfully administer thy holy sacraments, and by my 
life and doctrine set forth thy true and lively word. 
Be ever with me in the performance of all the duties 
of my ministry: in prayer, to quicken my devotion; 
in praises, to heighten my love and gratitude ; and in 
preaching, to give a readiness of thought and expres- 
sion suitable to the clearness and excellency of thy 



PASTOR'S PRAYERS 79 

Holy Word. Grant this for the sake of Jesus Christ 
thy Son our Saviour. Amen. 

MOST gracious God, the Giver of all good and 
perfect gifts, who of thy wise providence hast 
appointed divers orders in thy church; give thy grace, 
we beseech thee, to thy servant, to whom the charge 
of this congregation is now committed; and so re- 
plenish him with the truth of thy doctrine, and endue 
him with innocency of life, that he may faithfully 
serve before thee, to the glory of thy great name, 
and the benefit of thy holy church; through Jesus 
Christ, our only Mediator and Redeemer. Amen. 

OLORD JESUS CHRIST, thou good Shepherd of 
the flock, mercifully hear our supplications, and 
grant unto this parish all things that are needful for 
its spiritual welfare. Unite the hearts of pastor and 
people in love of thee, and in zeal for thy work. 
Endue thy ministers with holiness and wisdom, 
strengthen and increase the faithful, visit and relieve 
the sick, convert the wicked, rouse the careless, re- 
cover the fallen, restore the penitent, remove all 
hindrances to the advancement of thy truth, and bring 
all to be of one heart and mind within the fold of thy 
holy church; to the honor and glory of thy name, who 
art with the Father and the Holy Ghost, one God, 
world without end. Amen. 

Gbfje pastor's draper 

THE good shepherd giveth his life for his sheep. 
O Sovereign Pastor! who gavest thy life for thy 
sheep, grant that I may never sacrifice thy flock to 
my own ease, convenience, profit, or pleasure. But 
that I may employ my time, my substance, my care* 
my labors, my prayers, for their welfare continually* 
and thus, at least, give my life for my sheep. I have 
given you an Example, that ye should do as I have 
done. O Lord, that I could say this to the flock over 
which thou hast made me overseer. That I could 



80 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

say, Be ye devout, as ye see me devout; do ye forgive 
one another, as ye see me ready to forgive; despise 
the world as ye see me do it. Let me seriously con- 
sider that I am not only answerable for my own per- 
sonal offenses ; I sin every time I cause others to sin 
by my example. What reparation can be made, what 
answer can be given, when Christ requires our flock 
at our hand? Lord, suffer me not to follow my own 
will; reform me, that I may reform others; give me 
light to discover, and grace to amend, where I have 
done amiss. Amen. 

&fje $reacfjer'g draper 

OGOD, the Fountain of all wisdom, I most humbly 
beseech thee to enlighten my mind, that I myself 
may see, and be able to teach others the wonders of 
thy Law; that I may learn from thee what I ought 
to think and speak concerning thee ; and that what- 
ever in thy Holy Word I shall profitably learn, I may 
indeed fulfill the same. Without which I shall dis- 
quiet myself in vain. Direct and bless all my labors, 
without which I shall disquiet myself in vain. Give 
me a discerning spirit, a sound judgment, and an 
honest and a religious heart, that in all my studies, 
my first aim may be, to set forth thy glory, by setting 
forward the salvation of men. And if, by my minis- 
try, thy kingdom shall be enlarged, which God grant, 
let me, in all humility, ascribe the success not to 
myself, but unto thy good Spirit, which enables us 
both to will and to do what is acceptable to thee 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

I BESEECH thee, O God, for my brethren and for 
myself; that, in the exercise of our ministry, we 
may depend much upon thee; that we may learn from 
thee what we ought to speak concerning thee; that 
we may constantly speak the truth, boldly rebuke vice, 
and patiently suffer for righteousness' sake; that we 
may live and act as in the place of Christ, doing noth- 
ing unbecoming that character; and that we may pre- 



FOR A CONFERENCE SESSION 8r 

serve an apostolical firmness of mind under the vexa- 
tions and persecutions of this world. Amen. 

GTfje iPreacfjer'tf 2Sebicatton 

BRING into captivity every thought to the obedi- 
ence of Christ. Take what I cannot give: my 
heart, body, thoughts, time, abilities, money, health, 
strength, nights, days, youth, age, and spend them in 
thy service, O my crucified Master, Redeemer, God. 
O, let not these be mere words! Whom have I in 
heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that 
I desire in comparison of thee. My heart is athirst 
for God, for the living God. When shall I come and 

appear before God? — F. W. Robertson {Memoir), 

Jfor a Conference ibeggton 

OLORD of heaven and earth, who hast promised 
to reveal thy glory by Jesus Christ among all 
nations; remember, we beseech thee, thy holy church 
throughout the world. Especially do thou send now 
thy blessing upon this Conference assembled in thy 
name. Grant unto thy servants the spirit of power, 
and of love, and of a sound mind, that we may be 
wise in council and diligent in service, faithful stew- 
ards of the things belonging to thy kingdom, and 
worthy successors of the apostles whom our Lord 
sent forth to testify of him. Direct and govern us 
by thy Holy Spirit, preserving us from hasty judg- 
ment and vain dispute, inspiring us with hearty love 
and true devotion, and guiding us both to devise and 
do those things which shall be for the glory of Christ's 
name, for the welfare of his church, for the peace of 
all believers, for the spread of the gospel, and for the 
good of the whole world. Amen. 

ALMIGHTY and everlasting God, who by thy Holy 
Spirit didst enlighten the minds of thy servants 
the apostles and elders, met together at Jerusalem to 
take counsel for the peace and unity of thy church, 
and hast promised by thy Son Jesus Christ to be with 



82 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

thy faithful ministers to the end of the world, grant 
us, we beseech thee, the same enlightening and life- 
giving Spirit, that those things which seem good unto 
the Holy Ghost may also seem good unto us. Let 
brotherly love continue, and in lowliness of mind 
let each esteem other better than himself; save us 
from all uncharitable judging and rash speaking. Let 
the peace of God rule in our hearts, and the law of 
kindness dwell upon our lips; and of thy great mercy 
vouchsafe, we beseech thee, so to direct, sanctify, and 
govern us in all our doings, by the indwelling of thy 
good Spirit, that the gospel of Christ may be truly 
preached, devoutly received, and heartily obeyed, in 
all places, to the breaking down of the kingdom of 
sin and Satan, till at length the whole Hock of thy 
dispersed sheep being gathered into thy fold, under 
the one Bishop and Shepherd of our souls, shall be- 
come partakers of everlasting life, through the merits 
and mediation of thy dear Son Jesus Christ our Lord; 
to whom be glory in the church, world without end. 
Amen. 

iPraperg for Cfmrcf) Workers 

draper for Beaconestfes 

FATHER of mercies, we beseech thee to guide, 
protect, and encourage those consecrated women, 
who minister, clothed with sanctity and gentleness, in 
homes of want and misery and degradation. Enable 
them with pitiful hearts, inspired by the joy of serv- 
ice, to give counsel to the unwise, strength to the 
weak, succor to the tempted, courage to the despair- 
ing, and Christ to every soul. Help them to gather 
the little children into the tender Shepherd's care, 
and to lead the youth to the altars of God, and to 
open the gates of heaven for the dying. In moments 
of perplexity, discouragement, or peril, be thou their 
shield and support, and cause them ever to hear thy 
voice, "Lo, I am with you always." So prosper thou 
their beautiful and blessed work. In the name of our 
adorable Saviour, Christ. Amen. — Dr. William V. Kelley. 



PRAYERS FOR CHURCH WORKERS 83 

jfor anj> ^>orietj> 

OGOD, who knowest that we are not sufficient o£ 
ourselves to think anything as of ourselves, but 
that all our sufficiency is of thee, assist us with thy 
grace in all our work for others, direct us in it by 
thy wisdom, support us by thy power, that doing our 
duty diligently we may bring it to a good end, so that 
it may be profitable to our own souls and tend to the 
greater glory of thy name, through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

jfor tfje Cptoortf) 3Uague or §?oung people's Societies; 

O ALMIGHTY and Eternal God, we humbly pray 
thee to vouchsafe thy blessing to this organiza- 
tion that all its members, being inspired with lively 
faith and love, may earnestly strive to promote the 
honor due to thy dear Son, the spread of his church 
and the gathering of wanderers into the fold; give us 
grace to fulfill in our lives what we profess with 
our lips; deliver us, O God, from false doctrine and 
slackness of living; and grant that persevering unto 
the end, we may obtain everlasting life; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

jfor iHotfier^* Jffleetmgg 

OMOST blessed Lord and Saviour, who hast 
sanctified the name of mother by deigning to be 
born of human flesh, we come to thee in behalf of 

— for all the blessings of maternal sanctity, 

purity, and love. O enable them to feel as mothers 
for all the suffering children of guilt and sorrow, want 
and care. Bestow upon them, we most earnestly be- 
seech thee, those special graces which become them, 
and adorn them as faithful wives and mothers, with 
gentle wisdom, a loving prudence, forbearance, ten- 
derness, and sweetness, an untiring patience and for- 
giveness and willingness to suffer. Make them cour- 
ageous in danger, skillful in difficulty, self-forgetting, 
self-sacrificing; so that they may engage in thy works 
of mercy and charity, with pure and clean hearts; 



84 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

and so that all they do or say or think, for the relief 
of human sorrow and wretchedness, may be to please 
and glorify thee, who thyself didst take our infirmities 
and bear our sicknesses; and who now livest and 
reignest, in the unity of the Father and the Holy 
Spirit, ever one God, world without end. Amen. 

tfov Cfjurcfc Protfierfjoo&flf 

OLORD, our heavenly Father, we beseech thee 
to bless us, and all who belong to this Brother- 
hood. May its members be sheltered and protected 
evermore by thy fatherly love; and to its Associates 
vouchsafe the help and guidance of thy Holy Spirit. 
Help us all to bear one another's burdens, to live 
not for ourselves, but for others, as members of one 
family in Christ ; wash us from our sins in his precious 
blood; make us holy by the indwelling of thy Holy 
Spirit, and bring us all at last to the joy of thy 
heavenly kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 



Jfor tfje Mintitt? of tfje Cfjotr 

before &tvbitt 

OGOD, before whose throne in heaven the saints, 
standing on the sea of glass, sing the song of 
Moses and the Lamb; grant us so to sing thy praises 
here with the spirit, and with the understanding also, 
that we may be counted worthy to learn the new 
song, which none can learn save those that shall be 
redeemed from the earth; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

OGOD, our heavenly Father, who hast called us 
to the sacred ministry of praise in the service 
of thy church, make us ready now to worship thee in 
spirit and in truth. Teach us to understand and love 
thy holy service and help us to be reverent and atten- 
tive, guarding us from all wandering thoughts and 



FOR THE MINISTRY OF THE CHOIR 85 

unseemly actions, and make all that we shall say and 
do acceptable unto thee; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

O HEAVENLY FATHER, we are going into thy 
house. Cleanse our hearts and help us to worship 
thee in spirit and in truth. Keep our minds from idle 
and worldly thoughts, and grant that the prayers and 
praises of thy people may go up from thy holy temple 
on earth to thy mercy seat in heaven; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

gtfter ^erbixe 

GRANT, O Lord, that what we have sung with our 
t lips, we may believe in our hearts; and what we 
believe in our hearts, v/e may practice in our lives; 
so that being doers of the word and not hearers only, 
we may obtain everlasting life; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

PRAYERS BEFORE THE OFFERING 

OGOD, most merciful and gracious, of whose 
bounty we have all received, we beseech thee to 
accept this offering of thy people. Remember in thy 
love those who brought it, and those for whom it is 
given, and so follow it with thy blessing that it may 
promote peace and good-will among men, and advance 
the kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. 
Amen. 

HEAVENLY GIVER, freely we have received, help 
us freely to give; may the spirit of love hallow 
all our gifts and make them fruitful in extending the 
reign of truth and love in human hearts and lives. 
Amen. 

ALMIGHTY GOD, our heavenly Father, prosper 
every good work undertaken by thy church ac- 
cording to thy will, and give unto all of us thy serv- 
ants the spirit of Him who came not to be ministered 



86 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

unto but to minister, and whose joy it was to do thy 
will in helping men. Amen. 

"CROM the cross we seem to hear thee say, "This 
-*■ I did for thee, what hast thou done for Me?" Re- 
ceive our gifts to-day as tokens that we who give are 
ready to bear the cross for thee. Amen. 

O MASTER, in this wondrous day, when millions 
purchase with their blood the things we hold most 
dear, can we dare be satisfied with this gift we offer 
thee? Help us too to wear the armor, the whole 
armor of our God, and go forth to win for all the 
world the things his love hath bought. Amen. 

Dean L. J. Birney. 

AS thou didst take the loaves and by thy love and 
power make them to feed the famished multitude, 
so take our gifts to-day and bring them, through 
thy power and love, to feed the hungry souls of men. 
Amen. 

ORD, as to-day we press our gifts into thy hand, 
•" give us to see the scar it bears, and to know that 
no less gift than life itself can ever heal thy wounds, 
nor the wounds of the least of these. Amen. 

WE lift our hearts in gratitude for noble souls 
who have learned life's highest values, whose 
gifts of gold and service have bought for the world 
the things most precious. Bless us this day as we 
follow in their footsteps, and accept thou our offer- 
ings of our substance and our souls. Amen. 



Jfor tfje jfflintetrp of (gibing 

jfor a &igf)t ®tee of Wtaltfy 

OLORD JESUS CHRIST, who for our sakes didst 
become poor, we pray thee to protect them that 
are rich in this world, that they may be not high- 
minded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in thee, the 



FOR THE MINISTRY OF GIVING 87 

living God, who givest us richly all things to enjoy. 
Grant them grace so to use their wealth that they may 
do good, and be rich in good works, ready to dis- 
tribute and willing to communicate; laying up in 
store for themselves a good foundation against the 
time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

—1 Timothy 6. 17; Saint Paul, A. D. 65. 

ALMIGHTY GOD, from whom all good things 
-*"*■ do come ; give thy grace, we humbly beseech thee, 
to those whom thou hast intrusted with riches, that 
they as faithful stewards may dispense them in the 
service of thy kingdom for the increase thereof; to 
the honor and praise of Him who, though he was 
rich, yet for our sakes became poor, thy Son Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

OLORD, who hast taught us that all our doings 
without charity are nothing worth, and that it 
is more blessed to give than to receive, pour into the 
hearts of all thy people that most excellent gift of 
charity, and incline them to liberal offerings for the 
extension of thy church and the salvation of man- 
kind; and, thus bringing forth the fruit of good 
works, may they by thee be plenteously rewarded, 
and be made partakers of thy heavenly treasure; 
through the merits of Jesus Christ, our most blessed 
Lord and Saviour. Amen. 

jfotr tfje #race of Gibing 

LORD of the great sacrifice, restrain our eagerness 
for the things that are seen. Thy cross is our 
rebuke. Increase our spending for the things eternal. 
Thy cross our inspiration. Lord of the sinless life, 
our hope is to become like thee. Fulfill our hearts in 
service, that our hope be not in vain. Lord of the 
holiest joy — the joy of boundless giving — teach us 
thy grace of losing, that our joy may indeed be full. 
The world counteth all things lost if it gain not the 



88 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

things it may reckon. Help us to count all things but 
loss, to win thee, the wealth unmeasured. Amen. 

— Dean Birney. 

Jfor tfje jffltmstrp of tfje 9$orb 

BLESSED LORD, who hast caused all Holy Scrip- 
tures to be written for our learning; grant that 
we may in such wise hear them, read, mark, learn, and 
inwardly digest them, that by patience and comfort 
of thy holy Word, we may embrace, and ever hold 
fast, the blessed hope of everlasting life, which thou 
hast given us in our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. 

SHOW the light of thy countenance upon us, O 
Lord, that the going forth of thy Word may give 
light and understanding to nourish the hearts of the 
simple ; that translators, revisers and those who pub- 
lish and distribute thy Word may be given grace to 
sow thy good seed among all peoples to the glory of 
thy Holy Name. Amen. 

ALMIGHTY and most merciful God, who hast sent 
this Book to be the revelation of thy great love 
to man, and of thy power and will to save him, grant 
that our study of it may not be made vain by the 
callousness or carelessness of our hearts, but that 
by it we may be confirmed in penitence, lifted to hope, 
made strong for service and above all, filled with the 
true knowledge of thee and of thy Son Jesus Christ. 
Amen. 

.tfor i&eberence for (gob's? Wovtt 

BLESSED LORD, by whose providence all Holy 
Scriptures were written and preserved for our 
instruction, give us grace to study them this and 
every day, with patience and love. Strengthen our 
souls with the fullness of their divine teaching. Keep 
from us all pride and irreverence. Guide us in the 
deep things of thy heavenly wisdom, and of thy great 
mercy lead us by thy Word unto everlasting life; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour. Amen. 



FOR THE MINISTRY OF THE WORD 89 

OLORD, thy Word is before us, give us a meek, 
and reverent, and teachable mind, whilst we 
read and study it. Open to us its sacred truths, and 
enable us to receive it, not as the word of men, but 
as the Word of God, which liveth and abideth forever. 
Be thou, O Blessed Spirit, our teacher. Enlighten 
our minds and prepare our hearts. Shine, O Lord, 
upon thine own sacred page, and make it clear to us. 
What we see not show us, and where we are wrong 
correct us. Bring home some portion to our soul, 
and thus make us wise unto salvation; through Jesus 
Christ our Saviour. Amen. 

OLORD JESUS CHRIST, who art the Truth In- 
carnate, and the Teacher of the faithful, let thy 
Spirit overshadow us in reading thy Word, and con- 
form our thoughts to thy revelation, that, learning 
of thee with honest hearts, we may be rooted and 
built up in thee, who livest and reignest with the 
Father, ever one God, world without end. Amen. 

/"^.IVE us a pure judgment and a true understanding 
vJ" of thy Word, O Lord, that we be not deceived 
and carried away by any error; but grant that we may 
grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and 
Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. 

draper* tor goutf) anb Hmnbap H>cljool 

O GRACIOUS SAVIOUR, who lovedst little chil- 
dren and didst take them into thy holy arms and 
bless them, bless now, we pray thee, the children of 
this school. May they grow up in thy fear and love, 
may they live ever as members of Christ, children 
of God, and heirs of heaven. May they give their 
hearts to thee, and remember their Creator in the 
days of their youth; that so they may be thine for- 
ever, and at length enter the heavenly home which 
thou hast purchased for them; who livest and reignest 
with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God for 
evermore. Amen. 



go SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

A LMIGHTY and everlasting God, the Father of our 
•"* Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in 
heaven and earth is named, who art more willing to 
give thy Holy Spirit to them that ask thee than 
earthly parents are to give good gifts to their chil- 
dren, send down upon us the healthful Spirit of thy 
grace. Prosper, we humbly beseech thee, all the 
means employed to train up these children in thy fear 
and service. Dispose them from the heart to beMeve 
in thee, the Lord their God, and to worship and serve 
thee, their Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier. Keep 
them from all the dangers and temptations of this evil 
world, and sanctify them wholly in their souls and 
bodies. May they never be ashamed to confess the 
faith of Christ crucified, and manfully to fight under 
his banner, against sin, the world, and the devil, and 
to continue his faithful soldiers and servants unto 
their life's end; through the same, Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

ALMIGHTY God, be pleased, we humbly beseech 
thee, to move the hearts of many of thy children 
to seek the work of ministering to thee in holy things. 
We pray that some may be found among our own 
number eager to carry the blessed tidings of thy love 
to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of 
death. Clothe thou them now in the days of their 
youth with thy whole armor. Make them children of 
the light and of the day. And, when the time shall 
come for them to go forth bearing the shield of faith 
and the sword of the Spirit, do thou go with them, 
heavenly Father, that they may fight the good fight, 
and be proved the faithful of thy Christ. We ask it 
in his name and for his sake. Amen. 



jf or gmnbap ikljool QCeacfjerg 

["OST merciful God, who art the fountain of all 
grace, grant, we beseech thee, to the teachers 
in this school thy gifts of wisdom, gentleness, and 
patience. May they find their work a joy, and count 
all labor light that is undertaken out of love toward 



M ( 



FOR SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS 91 

thee. Guard them from the temptation to a careless 
and half-hearted service. May a consciousness of the 
solemn responsibility which is theirs be always pres- 
ent with them. Bless their every word to the good 
of the pupils committed to their care; and may thy 
Holy Spirit so enforce the teaching given by them 
that, at the last, the reward which thou hast promised 
those who turn many to righteousness may be theirs. 
All which we ask through Jesus Christ our Saviour. 
Amen. 

draper of a gmnbap ^cfjool ^eactier 

ALMIGHTY GOD, our Father and Teacher, grant 
to us that we may be taught of thee. Teach us 
to be truly humble in our search for thy truth, so that 
our eyes may be opened to behold wondrous things 
out of thy law. Give us a single-hearted purpose to 
make the children whom we are called to teach from 
thy Holy Word completely thy children in purity 
and good works. Grant us understanding hearts to 
read our children's characters and needs, and to lead 
them with wisdom and gentleness into the paths of 
righteousness and peace. Strengthen our own souls 
with a holy strength to resist the evil and to show 
forth in our lives the good, and so fill us with a love 
of the truth and enlighten our minds with the light 
of the everlasting gospel, that we may be worthy 
fellow workers with thy dear Son in the upbuilding 
of his kingdom. We ask all in his name. Amen. 

$raperg for j$Mt Clas&eg 

ALMIGHTY GOD, who hast given us thy holy 
Word to be a light unto our path amid the dim- 
ness of this present life, enable us, we beseech thee, 
so faithfully to obey thy heavenly guidance that our 
feet may never wander from the way of peace. Open 
our eyes to behold wonderful things out of thy law; 
quicken our consciences that we may know our need 
of thy forgiveness; comfort our souls with the assur- 
ance of thy continual pity, and help us to find in thee 
the satisfaction of our hearts' desire. Give us grace 



92 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

to study whatsoever hath been written o£ thee by 
holy men of old, with reverence, docility, and trust. 
Guard us from self-will, slowness of heart, and vanity 
of mind. Feed us upon the bread of life; give us to 
drink of the water of life freely. And when at last 
the end cometh and all Scripture shall have been ful- 
filled, be pleased to minister unto us an entrance into 
the blessed company of those who see eye to eye and 
know even as also they are known. Grant this, we 
beseech thee, most merciful Father, for the love of 
thy dear Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. 

OLORD JESUS CHRIST, who didst send from 
the Father the Comforter, even the Spirit of 
Truth, grant that he may enlighten our minds with 
the teaching of thy truth, and sanctify our hearts 
with the power of thy grace, so that evermore abiding 
in thee we may be found steadfast in faith and holy 
in life, being conformed unto thine image. Amen. 

OHOLY and Eternal Jesus, who hast begotten us 
by thy Word, renewed us by thy Spirit, and fed 
us by the daily ministry of thy Word, still go on to 
build us up to life eternal. Let thy Holy Spirit be 
present with us and rest upon us in the reading and 
studying of thy sacred Word, that we may do it 
humbly, reverently, without prejudice, with minds 
ready and desirous to learn and to obey, that we may 
be readily furnished to every good work, and may 
practice all thy holy laws and commandments, to the 
glory of thy name, whom with the Father and the 
Holy Ghost, we worship now and ever. Amen. 

$raperg for jWts&tcms; 

OLORD, who, though thou wast rich, yet for our . 
sakes didst become poor, and hast promised in 
thy gospel that whatsoever is done unto the least of 
thy brethren, thou wilt receive as done unto thee; 
give us grace, we humbly beseech thee, to be ever 
willing and ready to minister, as thou enablest us, 
to the necessities of our fellow creatures, and to ex- 



PRAYERS FOR MISSIONS 93 

tend the blessings of thy kingdom over all the world, 
to thy praise and glory, who art God over all, blessed 

forever. Amen. — Saint Augustine, A. D. 354. 

ALMIGHTY and everlasting God, who desirest not 
the death, but always the life of sinners, merci- 
fully receive our prayer, and deliver the heathen from 
idolatry, and gather them into thy holy church, to the 
praise and glory of thy name, through Jesus Christ 

our Lord. Amen. — Gelasian Sacramentary, A. D. 494. 

ALMIGHTY and everlasting God, the Brightness 
of faithful souls, fill the world with thy glory, we 
pray thee, and show thyself, by the radiance of thy 
light, to all the nations of the world, through Jesus 
Christ, our Lord. Amen. — Gregorian Sacramentary, A. D. 590. 

OTHOU who art the Light and the Life of the 
world, have compassion, we pray thee, upon those 
who are sitting in darkness and in the shadow of 
death; and as thou didst at the first, by the preaching 
of thine apostles, cause the light of thy gospel to 
shine throughout the world, be pleased to make thy 
ways known upon earth, thy saving health unto all 
nations. Bless thy servants who have gone into dis- 
tant lands to proclaim the message of salvation. 
Endue them with thy Holy Spirit, enrich them with 
thy heavenly grace, prosper them in all their labors, 
and give them souls as their reward. And, O thou 
Lord of the harvest! we pray thee to send forth more 
laborers into thy harvest. May they both sow the 
seed and reap the fruit of their labors! And give us 
grace to do our part in the great field of this world 
in sowing and in reaping, through the grace of Jesus 
Christ. Amen. 

OGOD, who hast made of one blood all nations of 
men for to dwell on the face of the whole earth, 
and didst send thy blessed Son to preach peace to 
them that are far off, and to them that are nigh, grant 
that all the peoples of the world may feel after thee 



94 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

and find thee; and hasten, O Lord, the fulfillment o£ 
thy promise to pour out thy Spirit upon all flesh; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— G. Cotton, Bishop of Calcutta, A. D. 1813. 

A LMIGHTY GOD, who, by thy Son Jesus Christ, 
■"■ didst give commandment to the holy apostles that 
they should go into all the world and preach the 
gospel to every creature, grant to us whom thou hast 
called into thy church a ready will to obey thy Word, 
and fill us with a hearty desire to make thy way known 
upon earth, thy saving health among all nations. Look 
with compassion upon the heathen that have not 
known thee, and on the multitudes in our own land 
that are scattered abroad as sheep having no shepherd. 
O heavenly Father, Lord of the harvest, have respect, 
we beseech thee, to our prayers, and send forth labor- 
ers into thine harvest. Fit and prepare them by thy 
grace for the work of thy ministry; give them the 
spirit of power, and of love, and of a sound mind; 
strengthen them to endure hardness, and grant that 
both by their life and doctrine they may show forth 
thy glory, and set forward the salvation of all men; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

OLORD, who didst come to seek and to save the 
lost, and to whom all power is given in heaven 
and in earth; hear, we beseech thee, the prayers of 
thy church for those who, at thy command, go forth 
to preach the gospel to every creature. Preserve 
them from all dangers to which they may be exposed, 
from perils by land and perils by water, from the 
deadly pestilence, from the violence of the persecu- 
tor, from doubt and impatience, from discouragement 
and discord, and from all the devices of the powers of 
darkness. And while they plant and water, send 
thou, O Lord, the increase; gather in the multitude 
of the heathen, convert in Christian lands such as 
neglect so great salvation, that thy name may be 
glorified, and thy kingdom come, O gracious Saviour 
of the world, to whom with the Father and the Holy 
Ghost be honor and glory, world without end. Amen. 



PRAYERS FOR MISSIONS 95 

ALMIGHTY and most merciful God, we humbly 
beseech thee to pour out thy Holy Spirit upon all 
our missionaries at home and abroad, and to crown 
their labors with success in the gathering of souls into 
thy kingdom. Strengthen them, we pray thee, with 
thy good Spirit, and comfort them with a sense of thy 
presence, that they may preach and teach to the up- 
building of thy kingdom and the salvation of souls. 
Make us to realize that they are doing our work and 
grant us grace to support them out of the wealth of 
good things which thou hast bestowed upon us; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

OGOD, who didst send the Holy Spirit upon the 
apostles, to teach them and lead them into all 
truth, that they might go into all the world and preach 
the gospel to every creature, pour out, we beseech 
thee, the same Holy Spirit upon thy church, that it 
may send forth the good tidings of great joy unto all 
people. Hasten thy work, O God; raise up laborers, 
and strengthen their hands, that they may tell of 
salvation unto the ends of the world. Bless with the 
mighty aid of thy Holy Spirit those who now work 
to the glory of thy name in distant lands. Give them 
faithfulness and courage, and take out of their way 
all hindrances. Forward the time, O God, for the 
coming of thy kingdom, and for the gathering in of 
all nations unto thee. And while we pray for the out- 
ward growth of thy kingdom in the world, we pray 
also for its inward growth in the hearts of men. And 
especially, O Lord, for our own church and country, 
we pray that true religion may abound unto all right- 
eousness and peace ; through thy only Son our Saviour 
Jesus Christ. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY GOD, by whose heavenly inspiration 
■**• we think those things that are right, even as by 
thy merciful guidance we perform the same, quicken 
in the hearts of thy servants the pastors of thy flock, 
and the people committed to their charge, such a sense 



g6 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

of their duty to all who are ignorant, erring, and 
uncared-for in this land as shall move them to sacri- 
fice and service in their behalf, without stint and with- 
out delay. Make us to see that souls are perishing 
for lack of the knowledge of Jesus Christ and him 
crucified, and since thou hast intrusted to us the 
knowledge of thy truth and the gifts of thy bounty, 
help us to use them as good stewards, so that thy 
Word may be proclaimed and thy kingdom enlarged, 
to the glory of thy name and the salvation of men; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

OGOD, the strength of all those who put their trust 
in thee; send thy blessing upon thy servants who 
work among the poor and needy. Fill their hearts 
with a courage which never falters, a patience which 
never wearies, and a love which never fails. Give 
them the constant vision of thy glorious kingdom, 
and make them ever mindful of the promise of thy 
dear Son: Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of 
the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto 
me. All which we ask through the same Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

Ufor J$is&ionar2> g>octetteg antr Waxktt£ 

LORD, we pray thee to bless the work of all mis- 
sionary societies. Teach us to realize that the 
command to go into all the world and preach the 
gospel to every creature is binding in measure to 
each individual. Show us what we ought to do. In- 
crease our zeal, our interest, our service, our suppli- 
cations. May we help in sending others, if we cannot 
go ourselves, by our prayers and offering; for the 
sake of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Church Missionary Society, A . D. 1799. 

jfor direction bv tije ©olp Spirit (& ffli£gi'omvp'& draper] 

ALMIGHTY GOD, who by the power of thy Holy 
Spirit didst inspire the first disciples with mis- 
sionary zeal for the conversion of the world, grant 
that thy Spirit may so inspire us that we may be ready 



PRAYERS FOR MISSIONS 97 

to spend and be spent in thy service, and may will- 
ingly lose our lives in this world in order that we 
may gather fruit unto life eternal. Show to each of 
thy children in what way thou wouldst have them 
labor, whether at home or abroad, for the establish- 
ment of thy kingdom amongst the heathen, and enable 
us all with cheerful readiness to carry out thy will; 
we ask in the name of Jesus Christ our Saviour. 

Amen. — Society for the Propagation of the Gospel, A. D. 1701. 

OGOD, we pray thee at this time to bless all mis- 
sionary societies. Prosper the work of their com- 
mittees. Give to the members the spirit of faith, 
patience, and perseverance. May offerings of money 
and of service abound as an encouragement to un- 
ceasing prayer, and hasten the time when the knowl- 
edge of the Lord shall cover the earth, as the waters 
cover the sea; for the sake of Jesus Christ. Amen. 



jfor Jfltegtonarieg anb Zfytiv Waxk 

OGOD of all the ends of the earth, and of all its 
families, we ask thee for the missionary work of 
thy church in foreign and distant lands. We commit 
to thee thy missionary servants in every land. 
Strengthen them continually with the Holy Spirit the 
Comforter, and if it please thee, keep them in outward 
health and safety. Prosper the work of their hands, 
to thy glory, and the salvation of all men, and the 
hastening of the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ; for 
his name's sake we ask it. Amen. 

MOST MERCIFUL FATHER, we beseech thee to 
send upon thy servants who preach the gospel 
to those in darkness, thy heavenly blessing. Give 
them courage, and faith, and health, and strength in 
their difficult work. May thy light shine through them 
into dark and ignorant lives, and may the knowledge 
of thy dear Son be brought to many who know him 
not; and this we ask for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen. 

— Church Missionary Society, A. D. 1799. 



98 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

MOST MERCIFUL FATHER, we beseech thee to 
send thy heavenly blessing upon thy servants, the 
ministers and teachers of thy church;- that they may be 
clothed with righteousness, and that thy word spoken 
by their mouth may have such success that it may 
never be spoken in vain. Grant also to thy children 
scattered abroad, grace to hear and receive what they 
shall deliver out of thy Holy Word, as the means of 
salvation, that all may receive the crown of everlast- 
ing glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Book of Common Prayer, A. D. 1552, adapted. 

$tst Jfltesionarp g>tubents 

WE pray thee, O heavenly Father and Lord of the 
harvest, that thou wilt send forth additional 
laborers into thy harvest. Prosper, we beseech thee, 
all efforts that are made to train and prepare those 
whom thou dost call to devote their lives to the serv- 
ice of thy church abroad. We pray especially for all 
missionary colleges at home and abroad. Bless those 
who teach therein, and grant that their labors may 
abound to thy honor and glory. Purify and enlighten 
the students. Put far from them all selfish ambitions 
and aims; fill them with wisdom and understanding, 
that they may become fit to act as thy messengers, and 
to accomplish the work to which thou hast called them. 
We ask in the name of Jesus Christ, thy Son and 
Saviour. Amen. 

— Society for the Propagation of the Gospel, A. D. 1701. 

OLORD^ Jesus Christ, who didst charge thine 
apostles that they should preach the gospel to 
every nation, prosper, we pray thee, all missions, both 
at home and abroad. Give them all things needful for 
their work, making them to be centers of spiritual 
life, to the quickening of many souls, and the glory 
of thy holy name. Support, guide, and bless all thy 
servants who are called to labor in those parts of thy 
vineyard, give them grace to witness to the faith, 
endue them with burning zeal and love, make them 
patient under all disappointments, and meekly sub- 



PRAYERS FOR MISSIONS 99 

missive under all persecutions, that they may turn 
many to righteousness, and may themselves win a 
crown of everlasting glory; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

$tx Somen's £$orfc among &omen an& Cfnlfcren 

GRACIOUS LORD, who wast born of a woman, who 
didst accept the ministry of women, and who 
didst take into thine arms little children to bless them, 
be present, we pray thee, with the women who now 
minister for thee to their sisters in heathen and Mos- 
lem countries; and be with all those to whom thou 
hast given the care of children to be brought up in 
thy fear and love. By means of these thy servants 
raise the women of these lands to know and enjoy the 
blessing and honor that thou didst purpose for women, 
and so give thy Word that great may be the company 
of the women who labor in the Lord, and carry into 
darkened homes the light of thy Presence and the 
joy of thy peace; hear us for thy name's sake. Amen. 

— Church Missionary Society, A. D. I79Q* 

Jfor Jflebtcal fflist&iowz 

TWTERCIFUL SAVIOUR, who of old time didst have 
-*" compassion on the multitudes, give to us and 
to all thy people the same spirit of love. Teach us 
to pity and care for all who in heathen and Moslem 
lands are living without thee. There are many who 
are sick and suffering, but have none to heal them. 
Send forth more of thy servants to help them. Give 
skill of hand and eye, strength of patience and heart*, 
and, above all things, thine own love to every doctor,, 
nurse, and assistant engaged in medical missions. 
Bless all the means taken to cure or relieve the suf- 
ferers. May the heavenly medicine of thy gospel, 
bring life and health to many souls. These and all 
other mercies, we beseech thee to bestow on them and 
those who minister to them, according to thy promises 
and for thy holy name's sake. Amen. 

— Church Missionary Society, A. D. 1709* 



loo SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

Jf or g>d)oote anb College* 

n^HOU only wise God, our Saviour, with whom are 
■*» all the treasures of heavenly understanding, illu- 
minate all schools and colleges and universities with 
the light that cometh from above; that those who 
teach may be taught of thee, and those who learn may 
be led by thy Spirit; and grant that by the increase 
of knowledge thy truth may be confirmed, and thy 
glory manifested; through Jesus Christ, thy Living 
Word. Amen. 

O FATHER of Lights and Fountain of all knowl- 
edge; bless, we beseech thee, all teachers and in- 
stitutions of learning, and grant that from them the 
light of truth may shine with growing brightness on 
all men, so that wisdom and knowledge may be the 
stability of our times, in Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

ALMIGHTY and everlasting God, whose Son came 
into the world to destroy the power of darkness, 
and make us the children of light, illumine our minds, 
we beseech thee, with the full and abiding knowledge 
of Christ and his gospel. Send thy favor upon all 
efforts to train the young in intelligence, virtue, and 
piety. Bless all schools and colleges of sound learn- 
ing and Christian education, and make them instru- 
ments in thy hand of great good to the world. Endue 
the officers and teachers with a true sense of their 
high stewardship, and enlarge the hearts of the people 
to a loyal support of good institutions of learning, 
where the precepts of the gospel are honored as the 
supreme wisdom. Enlighten the minds, purify the 
hearts and lives of the students, so that they may go 
forth a noble host, made ready and consecrated for 
large and fruitful work. Bless everywhere those who 
are striving for a Christian education amid the hin- 
drances of poverty and friendlessness; and raise up 
friends, and strengthen wise agencies, to prosper their 
endeavors. Pour out thy Spirit from on high, and 
sanctify all minds and hearts for thine acceptable 



FOR SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES 101 

service here and thy blessed kingdom hereafter. All 
which we ask in the name of Him who is the Way, 
the Truth, and the Life, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

jfor Httlumtnation 

SHINE into our hearts, O loving Master, by the pure 
light of the knowledge of thyself, and open the 
eyes of our mind to the contemplation of thy teaching, 
and put into us the fear of thy blessed commandments, 
that, trampling down all that is worldly, we may fol- 
low a spiritual life, thinking and doing all things 
according to thy good pleasure. For thou art our 
sanctification, and our illumination, and to thee we 
render glory, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and 
ever, and unto ages of ages. Amen. 

— Eastern Church Liturgy; Daybreak Office, Third Century. 

AND now, we beseech thee, Lord Jesus, that to 
whom thou dost vouchsafe sweet draughts of the 
words of thy knowledge, thou wilt also, of thy good- 
ness, grant that we may, in due time, come to thee, 
the fountain of all wisdom, and ever stand before thy 

face; for thy sake. Amen. — Venerable Bede, A. D. 673. 

Jfor Courage anb Jfnsiigfjt 

OTHOU who art the Truth and Teacher of all who 
come unto thee for light and guidance, in times 
of doubts and questionings, when our belief is per- 
plexed by new learning, new teaching, new thought, 
when our faith is strained by creeds, by doctrines, by 
mysteries beyond our understanding, give us the faith- 
fulness of learners and the courage of believers in 
thee; give us boldness to examine, and faith to trust 
all truth; patience and insight to master difficulties; 
stability to hold fast our traditions with enlightened 
interpretations, to admit all fresh truth made known 
to us, and in times of trouble to grasp new knowledge 
and to combine it loyally and honestly with the old. 
Save us and help us, we humbly beseech thee, O Lord. 
Amen. 



102 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

[" ORD, give us a heart to turn all knowledge to thy 
-" glory, and not to our own. Keep us from being 
deluded with the lights of vain philosophies; keep us 
from the pride of human reason; let us not think our 
own thoughts, nor dream our own imaginations, but 
in all things acting under the good guidance of the 
Holy Spirit, may we live in all simplicity, humility, 
and singleness of heart unto the Lord. Amen. 

— Henry Kirke White, A. D. 1785. 

"g>eno Jfortfj (Efjp tErtttff 

ALMIGHTY GOD, we invoke thee, the Fountain 
of everlasting Light, and entreat thee to send 
forth thy truth into our hearts, and to pour upon us 
the glory of thy brightness, through Christ our Lord. 

Amen. — Sarum Breviary, A. D. 1085. 

fpraper for 3Ugf)t 

OLORD, who art the Light, the Way, the Truth, 
the Life; in whom there is no darkness, error, 
vanity, nor death; the Light, without which there is 
darkness ; the Way, without which there is wandering ; 
the Truth, without which there is error; the Life, 
without which there is death: say, Lord, "Let there 
be light," and I shall see light, and eschew darkness; 
I shall see the way, and avoid wandering; I shall see 
the truth, and shun error; I shall see life, and escape 
death: illuminate, O illuminate my blind soul, which 
sitteth in darkness and the shadow of death; and 
direct my feet in the way of peace. 

— Saint Augustine, A. D. 354-403. 

HEAR us, O never-failing Light, Lord our God, the 
Fountain of light, the Light of thine Angels, 
Principalities, Powers, and of all intelligent beings; 
who hast created the light of thy Saints. May our 
souls be lamps of thine, kindled and illuminated by 
thee. May they shine and burn with the truth, and 
never go out in darkness and ashes. May the gloom 
of sins be cleared away, and the light of perpetual 
faith abide within us. Amen. —Mozambic, before A. D. 700. 



FOR SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES 103 

"3n W^y Htstjt fflav &t &** 3Ugf)t" 

OGOD, by whom the meek are guided in judgment, 
and light riseth up in darkness for the godly; 
grant us, in all our doubts and uncertainties, the grace 
to ask what thou wouldest have us to do; that the 
Spirit of wisdom may save us from all false choices, 
and that in thy light we may see light, and in thy 
straight path may not stumble, through Jesus Christ 

our Lord. Amen. —William Bright. 

Collect 

ALMIGHTY GOD, we invoke thee, the fountain of 
everlasting Light, and entreat thee to send forth 
thy truth into our hearts, and to pour upon us the 
glory of thy brightness; through Jesus Christ our 

Lord. Amen. — Sarum Breviary, A. D. 1085. 

jfor §>ti)oolst ano H>cf)oolcf)tlbrert 

GRANT, we beseech thee, O Lord Jesus, that all 
those in our schools may seek to find out what 
thou wouldest have them to do in life, and earnestly 
strive to follow thee, who in thy boyhood didst choose 
to do thy Father's business; for thy name's sake. 
Amen. 

3 {Eeadjer'sf draper for g>trengtfj 

GUIDE and strengthen and enkindle me, O Lord, 
inspire me with thy zeal, and guide me with wis- 
dom, that thy name may be known to those committed 
to my care, and that they may be made and kept 
always thine. O Lord, save me from idle words, and 
grant that my heart may be truly cleansed and filled 
with thy Holy Spirit, and that I may arise to serve 
thee, and lie down in entire confidence in thee, and 
submission to thy will, ready for life or for death. 
Let me live for the day, not overcharged with worldly 
cares, but feeling that my treasure is not here. What 
is it to live unto God? May God open my eyes to 
see him by faith, in and through his Son Jesus Christ: 
may he draw me to him, and keep me with him, making 
his will my will, his love my love, his strength my 



io 4 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

strength: and may he make me feel that pretended 
strength, not derived from him, is no strength, but 
the worst weakness. May his strength be perfected 
in my weakness. — Dr. Arnold of Rugby. 

OPbz £>tubent'£ draper 

OTHOU True Fountain of Light and Wisdom, 
vouchsafe to infuse into my understanding some 
ray of thy brightness, thereby removing that twofold 
darkness under which I was born, of sin and ignorance. 
Thou that makest the tongues of infants eloquent, in- 
struct, I pray thee, my tongue likewise; and pour 
upon my lips the grace of thy benediction. Give me 
quickness to comprehend and memory to retain; give 
me happiness in expounding and a facility in learning, 
and copious eloquence in speaking. Prepare my en- 
trance on the road of science, direct me in my journey, 
and bring me safely to the «end of it, even happiness 
and glory, in thine eternal kingdom, through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Thomas Aquinas, 1224-1274. His customary prayer before study. 

ALMIGHTY GOD, our heavenly Father, without 
whose help labor is useless, without whose light 
search is vain, invigorate my studies, and direct my 
inquiries, that I may, by due diligence and right dis- 
cernment, establish myself and others in thy holy 
faith. Take not, O Lord, thy Holy Spirit from me; 
let not evil thoughts have dominion in my mind. Let 
me not linger in ignorance, but enlighten and support 
me, for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Samuel Johnson. 

& ^tubent'a gmmnber 

I TAKE God the Father to be my God! I take God 
the Son to be my Saviour; I take God the Holy 
Ghost to be my Sanctifier; I take the Word of God 
to be my rule ; I take the people of God to be my 
people; I likewise dedicate my whole self to the Lord; 
and I do this deliberately, sincerely, freely, and for- 
ever. — Bishop John H. Vincent. 



FOR SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES 105 

drapers for a iberfatce in H>cfjool or College 

OLORD our heavenly Father, by whose Spirit man 
is taught knowledge, who givest wisdom to all 
that ask thee; grant thy blessing, we beseech thee, to 
all who serve thee here, whether as teachers or learn- 
ers, and help us in the work which thou hast given 
us to do. Enable us to labor diligently and faithfully, 
not with eye-service, but with singleness of heart, 
remembering that without thee we can do nothing, 
and that in thy fear is the beginning of wisdom. May 
we set thy will ever before us, and do that which is 
well-pleasing in thy sight, that so our work here may 
count for good to others, both now and in the days to 
come. Open thou our eyes to know thy marvelous 
works, to search our own spirits, and to understand 
the wondrous things of thy law. Of thy great good- 
ness pour into our hearts the excellent gift of charity, 
and grant that in meekness and truth and purity we 
may glorify thee, the Father of lights, in the spirit 
of thy dear Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

O ETERNAL and Almighty God, the only Giver of 
all true prosperity, we humbly beseech thee to 
continue thine effectual blessing on this institution, 
which has been founded in thy name for the training 
of youth in useful knowledge, virtue, and religion. 
Without thee vain is the help of man; without thee 
the best efforts of human labor and wisdom must end 
in disappointment. Vouchsafe thy favor to us who 
are teachers here, and endow us all with patient zeal, 
persevering love, and energetic devotion to those 
placed under our care. Continue to fill this institution 
with students of docility and talent, and grant them 
the spirit of industry, order, and kindness toward 
each other. Enlighten the minds of us all, and enable 
us to increase daily in wisdom, knowledge, thought- 
fulness, self-control, and all virtue ; and let the blessed 
influence of thy Holy Spirit continually comfort and 
direct us, so that this institution may prove a lasting 
source of good throughout all successive generations, 
to the enlargement of thy church, the support and 



106 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

adornment of the commonwealth, and the praise and 
honor of thy holy name; all of which we humbly ask 
for the sake of Jesus Christ, our only Saviour and 
Redeemer. Amen. 

GIVE thy blessing, we pray thee, to this our daily 
work, that we may do it in faith and heartily as 
to the Lord, and not unto men. Ail our powers of 
body and mind are thine, and we would fain devote 
them to thy service. Sanctify them and the work in 
which they are engaged; let us not be slothful, but 
fervent in spirit, and do thou, O Lord, so bless our 
efforts that they may bring forth in us the fruits of 
true wisdom. Strengthen the faculties of our minds 
and dispose us to exert them, but let us always re- 
member to exert them for thy glory, and for the 
furtherance of thy kingdom, and save us from all 
pride, and vanity, and reliance upon our own power 
or wisdom. Give us this day thy Holy Spirit, that we 
may be thine in body and spirit, in all our work and 
all our refreshments, through Jesus Christ thy Son, 

Our Lord. Amen. —Dr. Arnold of Rugby {Memoirs). 



drapers; for tfje opening or BeMcatton of a 
College 

OUR FATHER, who dost hold in thy wise care all 
the affairs of men, we thank thee for the piety and 
generous mind of those who laid the foundations of 
this college; we thank thee for the heritage they left 
to us, and for all benefactions and benefits received 
from their successors. We bless thee for all that 
trustees, teachers, patrons, and students of many years 
have given to make fair the name of alma mater; for 
the honor that graduates have won her by their worth 
and service, and for saving power given her out of the 
lives of her sons. Amen. 

We render thee hearty thanksgiving that it is 
granted us to return in health and courage to these 
halls; for joy and pleasure, for work and fellowship, 



FOR SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES 107 

for vision of things earthly and of things unseen, for 
friendship and love, for uplifting ideals, for sustaining 
religion; for all these we give thee honor and blessing. 
Amen. 

Continue thy favoring care to this college." Here 
may true learning abound, patient zeal for study; 
here may men come to know thee in science and art, 
in nature and philosophy; here may they find ideals 
for manly living, full of hope, energy, and kindness; 
here may they learn the happiness that is in work well 
done and in recreation wisely taken. To those, with 
us only a little time ago, who turn to us this day in 
longing thought, grant thine aid. Vouchsafe to them 
success unbounded. Help us to make fully welcome 
those who come among us this day for the first time; 
grant them health and happiness and success. Amen. 

Behold us, Father, waiting in thy presence here, 
asking thy blessing upon us and our concerns; we 
are gathered out of many families; we are come 
through the loving care and the sacrifices of some to 
whom we are dear, and who are very precious in our 
memory. To those of our affection, parents and 
kindred, whose hearts are in our hearts, grant, Lord, 
thy richest benedictions. And help us to uncover to 
them our love in kindly word and deed, by giving up 
ourselves to thy service, and by walking before thee 
in holiness and righteousness all our days. Amen. 

Direct us, Lord, in all our doings by thy most 
gracious favor, and grant us thy continual help; that 
in all our works begun, continued, and ended in thee, 
we may glorify thy holy name, and finally, by thy 
mercy, obtain everlasting life. Amen. 

ALMIGHTY GOD, the Father of our Lord Jesus 
Christ, we thy servants implore thy blessing upon 
this university. Give the spirit of wisdom to all those 
to whom thou hast given the authority of government. 
Let the students grow in grace day by day; enlighten 
their minds, purify their hearts and sanctify their 
wills. Bless all who have contributed to this institu- 
tion, and who by their benefactions have made possi- 
ble the erection of this ( ) which we now grate- 



io8 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

fully dedicate to thy service, and raise up to the uni- 
versity, we humbly pray thee, a never-failing succes- 
sion of benefactors, whose names may be perpetuated 
through all generations, as of blessed memory, and 
their good deeds be accepted through the sole merits 
of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen. 



PRAYERS FOR SPECIAL SEASONS OF THE 
CHRISTIAN YEAR 

gfobent 

O ALMIGHTY FATHER, Source of all being, 
Fountain of light and salvation, we adore thy 
infinite goodness in sending thy only begotten Son 
into the world, that, believing in him, we may not 
perish, but have everlasting life; and we pray thee 
that, through the power and grace of his first advent 
to save the world, we may be made ready to meet 
him at his second advent to judge the world; through 
the same thy Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

OLORD JESUS CHRIST, who at thy first coming 
didst send thy messenger to prepare thy way be- 
fore thee, grant that the ministers and stewards of 
thy mysteries may likewise so prepare and make ready 
thy way, by turning the hearts of the disobedient to 
the wisdom of the just, that at thy second coming to 
judge the world we may be found an acceptable people 
in thy sight, who livest and reignest with the Father 
and the Holy Spirit ever, one God, world without end. 
Amen. 

Cfjrtsitmass 

LORD JESUS, for whose sake all motherhood is 
holy, and since whose coming the little children 
are first in the kingdom of thy Father, come to every 
household and family that loves thee on this Christmas 
Eve. Speak comforting things to the heart of every 
mother, and take the little children into thine arms, 
O Christ. Let every Christmas gift be a reminder of 
thee, and let thy Name be spoken softly in every home. 
Lord Jesus, hear; Lord Jesus, come; and light this 
home with Christmas love. Amen. 
109 



no SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

OGOD, who hast made this most sacred night to 
shine with the illumination of the True Light, 
grant, we beseech thee, that, as we have known the 
mystery of that Light upon earth, we may also per- 
fectly enjoy it in heaven; through the same Jesus 

Christ our Lord. Amen. — Gelasian Sacramentary, A. D. 494. 

Cfjrtsftmasf Bap 

GLORY be to God in the highest, and on earth peace, 
good will toward men: for unto us is born this 
day a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord. We praise 
thee, we bless thee, we glorify thee, we give thanks 
unto thee, for this greatest of thy mercies, O Lord 
God, heavenly King, God the Father Almighty. O 
Lord, the only begotten Son Jesus Christ, O Lord 
God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father, who wast made 
man to take away the sins of the world, have mercy 
upon us by turning us from our iniquities. Thou who 
wast manifested to destroy the works of the devil, 
have mercy upon us by enabling us to renounce and 
forsake them. Thou who art the great Advocate with 
the Father, receive our prayer, we humbly beseech 

thee. Amen. —Bishop Ken, A. D. 1637. 

O ALMIGHTY GOD, who by the birth of thy holy 
Child Jesus hast given us a great Light to dawn 
upon our darkness, grant, we pray thee, that in his 
light we may see light to the end of our days; and 
bestow upon us, we beseech thee, that most excellent 
Christmas gift of charity to all men, that so, the like- 
ness of thy Son may be formed in us, and that we may 
have the ever-brightening hope of everlasting life; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

FATHER in heaven, whose mercy we praise in the 
yearly remembrance of the birth of thy beloved 
Son, Jesus Christ our Lord; grant that as we welcome 
our Redeemer, his presence may shed abroad, in our 
hearts and in our homes, the light of heavenly peace 
and joy. Make known unto all men, by thy Word and 
Spirit, the gospel of his blessed incarnation, whereby 



SPECIAL SEASONS in 

thou hast clearly revealed thy love for the world. 
And help us so to celebrate this day, in humility and 
gratitude, in unselfish love and cheerful service, that 
our keeping of Christmas may be a blessing to our 
souls, a memorial of Christ, a benefit to our fellow 
men, and a thanksgiving unto thee for thine unspeak- 
able gift of the Saviour. Amen. 

O ALMIGHTY GOD, who by the birth of thy Holy 
One into the world didst give thy true light to 
dawn upon our darkness ; grant that as thou hast given 
us to believe in the mystery of his incarnation, and 
hast made us partakers of the divine nature, so in the 
world to come we may ever abide with him, in the 
glory of his kingdom; through the same Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

Cfje Mtto §?ear 

OTHOU who art ever the same, grant us so to 
pass through the coming year with faithful hearts, 
that we may be able in all things to please thy loving 
eyes; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

• — Mozarabic Liturgy, before A. D. 700. 

TWTY FATHER, may I experience the great renewal 
1YA to-day! May old duties be new! May my sym- 
pathies be new! May my aspirations be new! May I 
have a new heaven and a new earth! 

OGOD, our Father; in the name of Jesus Christ thy 
Son, our Saviour; under the leading of thy Holy 
Spirit, our Guide and Comforter, we come to thee in 
prayer. We come on this new day of the New Year, 
to give thee thanks for all thy goodness to us through 
all the years we have lived on the earth; for life in 
this pleasant world; for home and friends; for health 
and strength of body; for all opportunities of labor 
and improvement; for liberty, civil and religious; but 
more than all else for thy church, thy Word, thy 
ministry, thy grace; for the greatness of thy love set 
forth in the gift of thy Son Jesus Christ for our salva- 



ii2 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

tion; for the coming of thy Holy Spirit to work within 
us thy holy will; and for all the wise and gentle lead- 
ings of thy providence by which we have been brought 
to know more and more of the mysteries and blessed- 
ness of thy grace. With this new year while we give 
thee thanks for all these thy loving gifts to us, we 
confess our sins, we ask forgiveness, we surrender our 
lives to thee, and ask for thy continued help through 
all the days of this year and through all the years of 
life. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with 
us all always. Amen. 

TWTOST gracious God, who hast been infinitely 
-**" merciful to us, not only in the year past, but 
through all the years of our life, be pleased to accept 
our most unfeigned thanks for thine innumerable 
blessings to us, graciously pardoning the manifold 
sins and infirmities of our life past, and bountifully 
bestowing upon us all those graces and virtues which 
may render us acceptable to thee. And, every year 
which thou shalt be pleased to add to our lives, add 
also, we humbly implore thee, more strength to our 
faith, more ardor to our love, and a greater perfection 
to our obedience; and grant that, in a humble sincerity 
and constant perseverance, we may serve thee most 
faithfully the remainder of our lives, for Jesus Christ's 
Sake. Amen. — Charles Hem, 1661-1745- 

(goob Jf rtbap 

OLORD JESUS CHRIST, who in the days of thy 
humiliation wast despised and rejected of men, 
a Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief, who wast 
wounded for our transgressions, and bruised for our 
iniquities, who wast lifted up upon the cross, that 
whosoever believeth on thee should not perish, but 
have everlasting life, grant that we may be enabled 
to look with humble hope to that cross for eternal 
salvation; that through thy most precious blood we 
may be washed from our sins, and at the hour of death 
and in the Day of Judgment be delivered from the 
condemnation of the law, and be received amongst the 



SPECIAL SEASONS 113 

blessed in thy everlasting kingdom, who livest and 
reignest with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, 
world without end. Amen. 

OLORD JESUS CHRIST, who as on this day didst 
suffer death upon the cross for us, forgive us all 
our sins, cleanse and make us pure. O thou, who 
didst die that we might live, let us not grieve thee 
by our sins, but soften our hard hearts, and bend our 
wills, that we may hear thy voice and live. O thou, 
who for us didst bear bitter sufferings, and dost not 
send us more than we are able to bear, give us help 
and strength to bear meekly and patiently all our 
troubles, and forgive us as we hope to be forgiven. 
Give us grace and strength so to live in this world, 
that at last we may dwell in that home which thou by 
thy death didst win for us ; for thine own name's sake. 
Amen. 

OLORD JESUS CHRIST, our merciful and loving 
Saviour, who didst bear thy cross for us, help us 
to take up our cross daily and follow thee. O thou 
who wast lifted up for us, draw us unto thee, that 
we may love thee better for thy great love to us. 
Lord, we love thee; help thou our want of love. O 
heavenly Father, make us to bear in our body the 
marks of the Lord Jesus by a pure and holy life. O 
Saviour of the world, who by thy cross and precious 
blood hast redeemed us, save us and help us, we 
humbly beseech thee, O Lord, both now and evermore. 

— Dean Goulburn, A. D. 1818. 

O BLESSED JESUS, our Lord and our Master, 
who wast pleased to thirst for our souls, grant 
that we may not be satisfied with the pleasures of this 
lower life, but ever thirst for the salvation of the 
souls thou didst die to save, and, above all, to thirst 
for thee ; grant this for thine own name's sake. Amen. 

OTHOU Prince of Peace, who, when thou wast 
reviled, reviled not again, and on the cross didst 
pray for thy murderers, implant in our hearts the 



ii4 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

virtues of gentleness and patience, that we may over- 
come evil with good, for thy sake love our enemies, 
and as children of our heavenly Father seek thy peace, 
and evermore rejoice in thy love; through Jesus Christ 
our Saviour. Amen. 

O CHRIST, give us patience, and faith, and hope 
as we kneel at the foot of thy cross, and hold 
fast to it. Teach us by thy cross, that however ill 
the world may go, the Father so loved us that he 

Spared not thee. —Charles Kingsley, A. D. 1819. 

"Mate 3t a #reat, Solemn, ^oip ^our" 

OLORD CHRIST, we are coming under the 
shadow of thy cross. It is so solemn a thing to 
live, and it is a fearful thing to live without Christ; 
and so many of us have no Christ. We pray that thou 
wouldst soften all our hearts and penetrate our con- 
sciences for God. May there swim into the lives of 
the multitude this moment this upbraiding question, 
"Why have I not given my life to Christ before, and 
must I not give it to him now?" Make it a great, 
solemn holy hour that shall induce multitudes to come 
to Christ, for Christ's sake. Amen. —Bishop Quayie. 

Carter Bap 

MY risen Lord, on this day may I be reminded of 
thy crucifixion! May I bear about in my body 
the dying of the Lord Jesus! May thy sufferings and 
thy death add solemnity and seriousness to my life! 
May I go softly all my days! 

OLORD JESUS CHRIST, who on the first day of 
the week didst rise from the dead, that thou 
mightest be our resurrection and life, raise us up now 
from the death of sin, that we may walk in newness 
of life, and hereafter rise to a happy eternity with 
thee. Give us grace to spend this day as a day holy 
unto thee, to thy honor and glory, for the good of 



SPECIAL SEASONS 115 

others, and our own salvation; for thy name's sake. 
Amen. 

ALMIGHTY GOD, who hast brought again from 
the dead our Lord Jesus, the glorious Prince of 
Salvation, with everlasting victory over hell and the 
grave: grant us power, we beseech thee, to rise with 
him to newness of life, that we may overcome the 
world with the victory of faith, and have part at last 
in the resurrection of the just; through the merits 
of the same risen Saviour, who liveth and reigneth 
with thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world 
without end. Amen. 

TDLESSED be the God and Father of our Lord 
*-* Jesus Christ, which, according to his abundant 
mercy, hath begotten us again unto a lively hope, by 
the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an 
inheritance incorruptible and undenled, and that 
fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for us. Keep us 
this day, O God, by thy power unto salvation; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour, who with the 
Father and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, liveth and 
reigneth, world without end. Amen. 

— 1 Peter i. 3-3, adapted; Saint Peter, A. D. 60. 

O GRACIOUS LORD, who at this time didst raise 
thy Son Jesus Christ with power from the grave, 
raise us up, we beseech thee, from the death of sin 
to the life of righteousness. Revive our faith and 
make us followers of him who hath taken away the 
"sin of the world; who by his death hath destroyed 
death, and by his rising to life again hath restored to 
us everlasting life." Hear us, O merciful Father, we 
pray thee, for the sake of our risen Saviour, to whom, 
with thee and the Holy Spirit, be all honor and glory, 
world without end. Amen. 

Caster £>tmbap Cbemttff 

OGOD, who for our redemption didst give thine 
only begotten Son to the death of the cross, and 
by his glorious resurrection hast delivered us from the 



n6 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

power of the enemy, grant us to die daily to sin, that 
we may evermore live with him, in the joy of his 
resurrection; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. 

Amen. — Saint Gregory, A. D. 500. 

GRACIOUS LORD, we remember that thou didst 
accompany thy two disciples as they journeyed to 
Emmaus. We, too, have a journey, we have a weary 
pilgrimage to perform. Our Emmaus is a distant 
though happy land. Do thou go with us, O Lord: be 
our Fellow-traveler; guide us, uphold us, strengthen 
us, make our hearts to burn within us, and evermore 
manifest thou thyself to our souls in gracious and in 
heavenly power; for thy own name's sake we ask it. 

Amen. — Archdeacon of Raphoe. 

HOLY FATHER, we give thee thanks that thou 
hast delivered us from the power of darkness 
and translated us into the kingdom of thy dear Son, 
Grant, therefore, we pray thee, that as by his death 
he has recalled us to life, he may raise us up in his 
love to joys eternal, through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

Note: For Ascension Day and other Church Festivals, see the Wesley 
Sunday Service. 




PRAYERS FOR USE IN THE FAMILY 

(general draper* tor tfje Jfamilp &ltar 



Sunday 



OGOD, who hast given us this day of rest, grant 
that thy constant presence may hallow it, and that 
thy love may draw all our hearts to thee; for we are 
thine, and not another's, and this is the day which 
thou hast made. Uplift our eyes unto thy holy hill, 
and keep our thoughts from wandering after vain 
things. Gladden our hearts as we go into thy house, 
O Lord, and prepare us to worship thee in spirit and 
in truth. Teach us how to pray, and tune our lips to 
sing the songs of Zion. Help us to keep this day un- 
spotted from the world, in remembrance of Jesus 
Christ, risen from the dead. Bless, Lord, thy church 
through all the world: the ministers of thy Word, and 
so many as have named the name of Christ. Help thy 
servants to declare the whole truth, and thy people 
to praise thee in holy lives. Especially we pray for 
thy church in this place, that it may shine with the 
light of thy presence, and reveal to many the path of 
life. Grant that a special blessing rest upon those 
who teach and learn in the Sunday schools; that youth 
may put on the armor of the Lord and defend the 
purity of our homes. Preserve them and us from all 
assaults of the enemy, and succor those who have lost 
the road to heaven; for Christ's sake. The Lord's 
Prayer. 

II 

Evening 

BE patient with us, O God, as the day darkens, and 
suffer not our hearts to fail beneath the shadow 
of our sins and the remembrance of our offenses. For 
with thee there is forgiveness, and thy right hand is 
strong to uphold all them that put their trust in thee. 
117 



n8 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

Thine, O Lord, is the praise, who hast made us in 
thine own image and redeemed us by thy Son. Help 
us to open our hearts to the Saviour of the world, and 
to receive the Spirit whom he has sent. Guided by 
him, may we be led into all truth, strengthened in all 
temptation, and filled with love to thee and to all 
whom thou hast placed together in family relation- 
ships. Let thy love reign in this household, and hal- 
low all its duties and comforts. Let thy kingdom be 
planted in every heart and blossom in every life. Also 
we bless thee for a gospel to all the world, and pray 
for those who carry the cross of Christ to the world's 
end. Let thy gospel, O God, have a fuller hearing in 
men's hearts and a better witness in men's lives. 
Kindle the beacon light of thy church upon thy holy 
hill, and rouse men's hearts to serve thee. Hasten 
the better day when all shall dwell together in love 
and brotherhood, and not in mistrust or hate, and 
when the knowledge of thee shall fill the earth with 
peace. To thy fatherly care we commend those dear 
unto us, and under thy protecting wing we lay us down 
to sleep, in Jesus Christ, our Lord. The Lord's 
Prayer. 

Ill 

OGOD, the knowledge of whom is eternal life, and 
apart from whom the labor of the day is vain; 
assist our morning prayers, and give us minds that 
understand thy will for us, revealed in Jesus Christ. 
Help us now to carry the spirit of the Lord's Day 
into the business of the week, that we may live as in 
thy presence, may work as we have prayed, and in our 
daily occupations may praise thee. Let no worldly 
or selfish desires take hold of our hearts, but teach 
us how to use this world as not abusing it, and in all 
our goings to bear about with us the candle of the 
Lord. Support us in any difficulty or temptation, and 
help us to be faithful to those tasks and duties that 
seem small and commonplace, that we may be ac- 
counted worthy of a larger trust. Lord, send thy 
blessing upon this household; hold every member of 
this family fast in thine ennobling love. And in the 



PRAYERS FOR USE IN THE FAMILY 119 

name of Him of whom the whole family in heaven 
and earth is named, we pray for all mankind; alike 
those who serve thee, that they may have strength and 
courage, and those who forget thee, that they may be 
awakened. In all the business relations of men let 
social justice be done and human brotherhood pre- 
vail over selfish lusts. To that end establish first 
thy kingdom in our own hearts, that we may become 
lights set in this world and heralds also of Christ's 
coming: in whose name we pray. The Lord's Prayer. 

IV 

\X7E offer unto thee, O Lord, our praises and 
W thanksgivings for all thy mercies multiplied 
upon us, more than we can number and far greater 
than we can express. More especially do we praise 
thee for those spiritual blessings which thou hast 
revealed to us in the life of thy dear Son. Eye hath 
not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the 
heart of man, the things which thou, O God, hast pre- 
pared for those that love thee. Give us grace to love 
thee more and more, till we come to thine everlasting 
kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

OGOD, who art near us always, we would thank 
thee for all the good gifts with which thou hast 
filled our lives ; for blessings all about our path, for 
love that makes life beautiful, for all thoughts that 
uplift and gladden us, for disappointment and failure 
which humble us, for pain and distress which teach 
us our need, but most of all for our hope in thee, and 
the fullness of joy which thy presence brings. Let us 
never doubt that having led us thus far, thou wilt 
lead us to the end, and that thou hast in store for us 
that perfect gladness of which we see some glimpses 
here. We all wish to serve thee ; show to each of 
us how we shall do it best. Look upon all of us who 
kneel here this day; use us as thou wilt. Let us have 
no lower aim, let none of us measure ourselves by 
others, or by any narrow and common standard of 
•good, but let our lives be beautiful on all sides and 



120 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

full of this desire to be perfect as thou art perfect. 

We ask, knowing how poor and weak we are, for the 

sake of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. The Lord's 
Prayer. 



TX7E praise thee, O God, with the morning light, 
* * and in the brightness of a new day we bless thy 
holy name. For all thou hast bestowed upon us with 
the gift of life, making us in thine own image, and 
granting us to share as children in thy knowledge and 
thy love, in thy work and thy joy, we thank thee, 
heavenly Father. For all good things in the world, 
for food and raiment, for home and friendship, for 
useful tasks and pure pleasures, we thank thee, 
heavenly Father. For all spiritual blessings, for thy 
holy Word, for the Christian fellowship, for the good 
example and blessed memory of thy saints, for the 
secret influence of thy Spirit; we thank thee, 
heavenly Father. And above all we praise and bless 
thee for the life and death of thy dear Son, our 
Saviour Jesus Christ. 

O Lord, grant that our hearts may be truly cleansed, 
and filled with thy Holy Spirit, and that we may arise 
to serve thee, in entire confidence and submission to thy 
will, ready to do and to endure whatsoever thou hast 
appointed for us. Let us live for the day, not over- 
charged with worldly cares, but feeling that our treas- 
ure is not here, and desiring truly to be joined to thee 
in thy heavenly kingdom, and to those who are already 
gone to thee. O Lord, save us from sin, and guide us 
with thy spirit, and keep us in faithful obedience to 
thee; through Jesus Christ our Lord. The Lord's 
Prayer. 

VI 

WE come to thee this morning, heavenly Father, 
with hearts full of thankfulness for the mercies 
of the night. We have rested in safety and in peace 
under the shadow of thy wing. Thou hast kept us 
quiet from the fear of evil; nor sickness, nor deaths 



PRAYERS FOR USE IN THE FAMILY 121 

nor tempest, nor fire, nor any calamity hath overtaken 
us or our dwelling. How sure are the mercies of thy 
covenant, O Lord ! All thy promises in Christ Jesus are 
yea and amen. Fulfill unto us, we beseech thee, these 
thy mercies and promises, and cause that this day we 
may rejoice in thy salvation. Bless to us thy Word 
which we have now read. O, sanctify us by thy truth; 
and, while we receive its instruction and comfort in 
our hearts, may we carry out its precepts in our lives, 
and adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things. 
May we be just and true, loving and kind, gentle, for- 
bearing, and forgiving, and so shine as lights in the 
world; holding forth the word of life. May every day 
witness some new victory over evil desires and pas- 
sions within us, and over the evil that is in the world. 
Bless our rulers, and the schools and churches in our 
land. May all who rule, and all who teach, be led and 
taught by thee. Have pity upon the poor and the 
sorrowing; upon homes made desolate by famine, 
pestilence, or war. Mercifully forgive our sins, and 
bring us unto the perfection of knowledge, of holiness, 
and of blessedness, in Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom 
be glory forever. Amen. The Lord's Prayer. 

VII 

TJTAVE mercy upon us, O God, according to thy 
A -*■ loving-kindness ; according to the multitude of thy 
tender mercies, blot out our transgressions. For we 
acknowledge our transgressions, and our sins are ever 
before us. We confess that we have sinned against 
thee in thought, word, and deed, and are not worthy 
to be called thy children. But thou, O Lord, art good, 
and ready to forgive, and plenteous in mercy to all 
them that call upon thee. To the broken in heart thou 
hast promised to be near, and to save such as be of a 
contrite spirit. Grant us a spirit of sincere contrition, 
that, searching our hearts by the light of thy truth, 
we may be enabled to see and acknowledge our evils, 
and to shun them as sins against thee. And may we 
be thus delivered, O Lord, from all idolatry of self 
and the world, from all pride and self-will, from all 



122 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

prejudice, blindness, and hardness of heart, from 
covetousness and ambition, from all feelings of ani- 
mosity, resentment, and contempt for those whom we 
dislike. The Lord's Prayer. 

VIII 

OUR waking eyes are unto thee, O Lord! Each 
morning brings us to thee with new obligations 
of gratitude for thy loving-kindness in the night- 
season, and of dependence for the day upon which we 
enter. We are not worthy of the least of all thy 
mercies; for we have sinned, O Lord! we have sinned 
against thy law, against thy love, against thy very 
grace in Christ our Saviour. Yet do we hope in thy 
mercy still, and cast ourselves upon thee alone. O 
thou Spirit of truth and holiness! we pray thee to keep 
us this day from sin. May we be mindful of thy pres- 
ence, as a holy guardianship from wrong. And may 
we so delight in God, that we shall live above the 
power of temptation and evil, and, while diligent in 
business, be fervent in spirit, serving the Lord. Help 
us to be true and faithful, just and kind, gentle and 
loving, pure and holy. Teach us to behold thy glory 
in thy works, to discern thy goodness in thy provi- 
dence, and to rejoice ever in thy word and thy grace; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. The Lord's Prayer. 

IX 

Sunday 

LORD of the morning, thou dost hear us call, and 
thou art glad to answer us. We thank thee for 
this exceeding great mercy. We are astonished at 
it, but rejoice in it. Thy favor makes us glad and 
thy forbearance makes us to sing aloud. We bless 
thee for the morning, its new light, its dismissal of 
the shadows, its revealment of the world, its dis- 
closure of the way duty's path takes, so we need not 
walk amiss. And we bless thee for this morning. It 
is Christ's Sabbath. He created it by waking from 
the grave of slumber on this day. This hallowed day, 



PRAYERS FOR USE IN THE FAMILY 123 

wherein we wipe the dust of our week journey from 
the face of the heart and sit in great and quiet glad- 
ness in thy house and think of thee and then rejoice. 
We rejoice in God our Saviour. We are elate in hope. 
We walk at the summons of the risen Christ. Help 
us to walk henceforth in newness of life in Christ 
Jesus, our Lord. Make us holy folks. Forgive our 
sins, which we cannot deny are very, very many; 
but thy blood is our hope, and thy love is our joy. 
May thy service be sweeter to our hearts this day 
because of this service, and may we be at its conclu- 
sion as those who have had a conference with God, 
we pray in Christ. Amen. The Lord's Prayer. 

X 

1DLESSED be God, the Father of all mercies, for 
J—* the mercies of the past night; for shelter, safety, 
comfort, rest, and peace. How precious are thy 
thoughts unto us, O God! how great is the sum of 
them! When we awake we are still with thee. So 
would our hearts rise to thee, O Lord, with the morn- 
ing light, with the incense of prayer and praise; yea, 
we would present our bodies unto thee a living sacri- 
fice. May this, our reasonable service, be made holy 
through the blood of Jesus, and acceptable through 
the Spirit of all grace. May the Holy Spirit descend 
and rest upon us, making our home and our hearts the 
abode of peace. Help us this day to live unto thee, 
and in all our works and ways to do that which is 
well-pleasing in thy sight. Prosper the labor of our 
hands, our studies, our various callings; bless to us 
the means of knowledge and improvement; make us 
thoughtful of others, considerate of the poor and 
afflicted, wise and ready unto every good word and 
work. We commend unto thee our kindred and 
friends, beseeching thee to grant them the promise of 
the life that now is; and in the world to come, life 
everlasting. We pray for thy holy church universal, 
for the coming of light, peace, and salvation in all the 
earth; through Christ our Lord. Amen. The Lord's 
Prayer. 



i2 4 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

OLORD, hear our prayer, we beseech thee e Fit us 
day by day for the duties that lie before us. We 
would put ourselves and all that concerns us into thy 
hands, and ask thee to be our Guide and Counselor. 
In all our ways we desire to acknowledge thee; and 
do thou direct our path. Keep us, we beseech thee, 
from all evil, that we, being ready both in body and 
soul, may cheerfully accomplish those things that thou 
wouldst have us to do. Fit us, O Lord, for all the 
events of this short and uncertain life. If prosperity 
be our portion, keep us humble and watchful in the 
midst of it; or, if sorrows and trials come upon us, 
give us grace cheerfully to submit, saying, "Father, 
not my will, but thy will be done." Be very gracious 
to our friends: grant to them health and prosperity in 
this life, and make them meet for the life everlasting. 
And, O Lord, bless and save the whole world. We 
ask these blessings in the name of Jesus Christ, our 
Lord and Saviour. Amen. The Lord's Prayer. 

XI 

"DOW down thine ear and hear us, for we are poor 
-" and needy. But thou, O Lord, art good and ready 
to forgive, and plenteous in mercy unto all those that 
call upon thee. O God, who hast appointed unto every 
man his work, and now art calling us to the occupa- 
tions and duties of another day; help us to perform 
our tasks diligently and to guide our affairs with 
wisdom. And may it please thee to encourage our 
undertakings with thy favor, granting us such success 
as seemeth best to thee. Help us to walk uprightly 
and to live peaceably. Make us kindly affectioned 
one toward another, ready to minister to those in 
trouble and to do good to all men as we have oppor- 
tunity. Suffer us not to be overburdened with this 
world's cares, or ensnared by its pleasures, or led 
astray by its fashions and examples: while we confess 
ourselves strangers and pilgrims on the earth, desiring 
a better country, that is, a heavenly. Father of 
mercies, receive our intercessions for all sorts and 
conditions of men. Keep the little children from the 



PRAYERS FOR USE IN THE FAMILY 125 

evil of the world; preserve our homes in honor and 
happiness; make our neighborhood and country a part 
of thy kingdom; that thy kingdom may come by the 
common ways of life. Let all the people praise thee, 
and thy love bind them into one; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. The Lord's Prayer. 

XII 

OGOD, our Father, we come to thee to begin the 
day. It is thy day, and we are thy children, and 
we would live through all the hours so as to please 
thee. Give us thy benediction, and grant to us the 
help of thy Holy Spirit, that we may do what thou 
wouldst have us do. Incline our hearts to keep thy 
commandments. Restrain in us all unholy tendencies 
and desires. Let us not come under the power of the 
evil one. Strengthen us for the enduring of whatever 
temptation we may meet during the day, and let us not 
yield to sin. Bless us in all our work. Help us to 
be diligent in all duty, faithful in all our relations in 
life, and earnest in doing whatever our hands find to 
do. Fill us with thy love, so that we may be kindly 
affectioned one to another, and always gentle, patient, 
thoughtful, and kind. Help us worthily to represent 
thee wherever we are to-day. May we have grace to 
show, not in our words only, but in our disposition, 
in our conduct, in our temper, in the very tones of our 
speech, the spirit of Christ, that all who see us shall 
see something of the Master in us. Help us to con- 
fess thee before men, and to honor thy name in all 
our life. Grant us the forgiveness of all our sins, 
and grace to live through all the hours of this day 
obediently, worthily, and faithfully, through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. The Lord's Prayer. 

XIII 

OGOD, we humbly pray thee, give us energy to 
meet all the demands made upon our life to-day. 
May we have the responsive spirit which answers 
every appeal of thine, whether it come through the 



126 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

subtle influence of thy Spirit or through the voice o£ 
some one of thy needy children. May we be able to 
give better than those who ask expect. While an 
empty hand may be stretched toward us for alms, may 
we be able to give what the empty heart is craving 
but dares not ask for. O Lord, we want to be helpful 
to the poorest; we would use hand and voice and heart 
to cheer and comfort all who need our help. That 
we may, like thine apostle, take thy place of helpful 
ministry, give us thy Holy Spirit in full measure. 
Help us to realize that Christ is still giving himself 
in man for man. O for a greater faith in the Christ 
of to-day! Art thou not the same yesterday and to- 
day? When men looked upon thee, heard thy voice, 
and felt the touch of thy hand, wast thou more real 
than now? Did the testimony of the sense make thy 
presence more actual than our vision of faith may 
make thee? The Lord's Prayer. 

XIV 

ACCEPT our morning offering of praise, O Lord, 
for our hearts are filled with gratitude. Thou 
hast given us the priceless blessing of thy loving care. 
We thank thee that thy commandments are not griev- 
ous. And "in keeping of them there is great reward." 
Help us to understand that the reward of obedience is 
not reserved until after we have kept thy command- 
ments, but in keeping of them we find our reward. 
Grant that we may so love thy law that we shall not 
keep it merely because we are afraid of the conse- 
quences of disobedience, but because it is in harmony 
with our desires. Grant that we may work with less 
friction, enjoy more perfect peace, have freer use 
of all our powers, proving that the "statutes of the 
Lord are right, rejoicing the heart." Forbid, O Lord, 
that we should rob ourselves of the things essential 
to our happiness, by making hard work of keeping thy 
commandments. Help us to begin the day and live 
it through under the inspiration of thy Holy Spirit. 
In the name of Christ, our Lord and Saviour. The 
Lord's Prayer. 



PRAYERS FOR USE IN THE FAMILY 127 

XV 

GIVER of all good, and Fountain of all joy, what 
rich feasts for our senses and our souls does thy 
fatherly love offer anew with each returning morning. 
How hast thou filled the earth with bounty and 
adorned it with beauty for our benefit. We see thy 
mercy freshly revealed in the light and privilege of 
this new day. Again we hear thy gracious invitations 
to come up higher and enjoy the felicity of heavenly 
things. Thanks we give thee for the returning light 
and our daily bread; for home and health and friends; 
for the instructions of thy truth and the opportunities 
of thy service; for repeated warnings against sin, and 
the ample rewards that crown our fidelity; for the 
sweet and kindly ties that bind us one to another, and 
the pure affections that spring up in our hearts, foun- 
tains of bliss unspeakable; for all that renders this 
world a pleasant home, and fits us for the life to come. 
Teach us, O Father, to imitate thine own boundless 
beneficence. Freely as we have received, so freely 
may we give. We would not selfishly appropriate thy 
favor, but would know the deeper joy of ministering 
to others' needs. Keep us this day without sin, and 
may its passing hours render us more worthy of thy 
love. And these benefits we ask for Christ's sake. 
The Lord's Prayer. 

XVI 

Sunday 

"LTEAVENLY FATHER, we commend ourselves to 
■**-*• thee this day. Be with us, we beseech thee, in 
prayer, to quicken our devotion ; in praises, to heighten 
our love and gratitude; keep us from all wandering 
thoughts; fill our memory with the words of thy law, 
and enlighten our understanding with the illumination 
of the Holy Ghost. Remember in mercy all who are 
hindered from coming to thy house, or who are de- 
prived of the means of grace. Bless and teach all 
those who this day give themselves to the instruction 
of the young or ignorant, and grant to us and thy 
whole church that at length, with all thy faithful 



128 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

servants departed, we may enter into that rest which 
remaineth for thy people; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. 

Accept, O Lord, our intercessions for all man- 
kind. Let the light of thy gospel shine upon all na- 
tions, and may as many as have received it, live as 
becomes it. Be gracious unto thy church, and grant 
that every member of the same, in his vocation and 
ministry, may serve thee faithfully. Bless all in 
authority over us, and so rule their hearts and 
strengthen their hands that they may punish wicked- 
ness and vice, and maintain thy true religion and 
virtue. Send down thy blessings, temporal and spirit- 
ual, upon all our relations, friends, and neighbors. 
Reward all who have done us good, and pardon all 
those who have done or wish us evil, and give them 
repentance and better minds. Be merciful to all who 
are in any trouble; and do thou, the God of pity, 
administer to them according to their several necessi- 
ties;, for his sake who went about doing good, thy Son 
our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. Our Father. 



XVII 

Evening 

ALMIGHTY GOD, we confess that it is by the 
Spirit of thy Son in our hearts that we cry, "Abba, 
Father/' to thee. We thank thee that we are united 
to Christ by faith, and that it is no longer we who 
live, but Christ who lives in us. Hear us, for his sake. 
Our Father, forgive us wherein we have not lived by 
faith in Christ to-day. Forgive the actions that have 
not been Christlike, the speech that has not been sea- 
soned with his spirit, and those things within our 
hearts which have defiled us in his sight. Break our 
bondage to all our besetting sins, and deliver us from 
every relationship in which we are not able to make 
thy will our law. Renew and establish the mind of 
Christ in us. Teach us a more humble and complete 
dependence upon him for all things, as we depend 
upon him for peace and safety this night. Bless, our 
Father, all conditions of men. May the rich and great 



PRAYERS FOR USE IN THE FAMILY 129. 

be not uplifted in the conceit of their power, nor the 
poor and lowly hardened by their lot. May rich and 
poor, great and small, be enabled to work together 
for the just distribution of the increase of human toil 
and for the common enjoyment of the blessings of 
life. Show all men the vanity of earthly things, and 
unite the hearts of all to do justly, love mercy, and 
walk humbly before thee, O God; to whose especial 
care we commend those of our immediate circle; in 
the name and for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord. 
The Lord's Prayer. 

XVIII 

OLORD GOD, our fathers trusted in thee, and 
were not ashamed; and in thy love we would con- 
fide forever and ever. Thou art our Good Shepherd, 
in whom we trust. We will follow thee and commit 
our lives to thee. While we are weak, and unable to 
help ourselves or to aid one another, we would look 
up to thyself, in whom is everlasting strength, and in 
thee would we trust. In health and in sickness, in 
hope and in sorrow, in enjoyment and in suffering, we 
would look up to the hills whence cometh our help. 
The sun has spread its light over the world; the earth 
is bringing forth renewed supplies of good. Thou 
providest for the wants of man and beast. We bless 
thee, O Lord, for thy gifts, and pray that thou wilt 
receive our humble tribute of thanksgiving and praise. 
And still, merciful Father, be merciful to us in our 
renewed wants, and visit us with thy salvation. Go 
forth with us, O Lord, to the engagements, the diffi- 
culties, the duties, and the pleasures which await us 
to-day. O keep us from evil and sin! Bless all who 
are dear to us by any tie; all who are in any want, 
trouble, or sorrow; and hasten the coming of thy 
kingdom, for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen. The Lord's 
Prayer. 

XIX 

OLORD, without whose aid we can do nothing 
aright; help us to understand thy will for us re- 
vealed in Jesus Christ; and assist us in our morning 



130 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

prayers. Upon thee, who knowest what things we 
have need of* before we ask, and art able to do for us 
above all that we ask or think, we cast our hopes and 
fears, our ambitions and our necessities, and we plead 
the promise of thy Fatherly love. Grant us in all our 
duties thy help, in all our temptations thy protection, 
in all our sorrows thy peace. And whatsoever it may 
please thee to give or to withhold, teach us to be 
content and to rest with unshaken trust on thine assur- 
ance that all things work together for good to them 
that love thee, and are called of thy high purpose 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. And now we pray 
for our relatives, friends, and associates, that thou 
wilt help us to be a blessing unto them; for the poor, 
the troubled, and the sick, that thou wilt help us to 
succor and to comfort them; for this community, our 
c&untry, and all the nations of the earth. Let thy 
kingdom come with power in the world thou hast 
redeemed; and unto each of us whom thou hast called 
to serve thee give courage and patience, and lend us 
the strength of thy right hand. Grant that no evil 
shall come through our negligence, and that we lose 
no opportunity of doing good: for Christ's sake. The 
Lord's Prayer. 

XX 

WE lift up our eyes unto the hills, whence cometh 
our help; our help cometh from the Lord, which 
made heaven and earth. Thine angels, O Lord, have 
encamped round about us in the night season, and 
thou hast given them charge concerning us, to defend 
us from all evil. We open our eyes to the remem- 
brance of thy mercy, to the consciousness of thy pres- 
ence, to the sense of our dependence. Only our sins 
separate us from thee, our loving Father; and we 
beseech thee to blot these out for thy name's sake, 
and to receive us in Christ as thy redeemed and recon- 
ciled children. May thy favor be upon the community 
in which we dwell, upon thy church, upon our land! 
Give peace in our time, O Lord, and incline the hearts 
of our rulers to that which is just and lawful in thy 
sight. Have mercy upon the poor, the afflicted, the 



PRAYERS FOR USE IN THE FAMILY 131 

solitary, the bereaved; and cause that the grace of 
thy gospel shall go forth everywhere to heal the sins 
and sorrows of all mankind. Finally bring us unto 
thine everlasting kingdom, through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. The Lord's Prayer. 

XXI 

OUR heavenly Father, this great world in which 
we live is thy world, and the object of thy re- 
deeming love. We remember this as .we come in 
prayer before thee, to ask for love, that we may go 
forth as sowers and as reapers in the great field of 
humanity. We pray for love, that we may seek the 
well-being of men. We pray for faith, that we may 
take hold of the work thou dost appoint us to do with 
perfect confidence in the power of thy grace. We 
pray for patience, that we may be gentle and forbear- 
ing and long-suffering in the service of mankind. We 
pray for wisdom, that we speak right words and do 
the right things in our endeavors to save men. We 
pray for the joy of thy salvation and for the uphold- 
ing of thy Spirit, that we may teach transgressors thy 
ways and that sinners may be converted unto thee. 
And all this fitness for thy service we seek through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. The Lord's Prayer. 

XXII 

OLORD, we beseech thee, grant us grace to with- 
stand the temptations of the world, the flesh, and 
the devil, and with pure hearts and minds to follow 
thee. Suffer us never to fall away from Christ, and 
never, never to betray him. O! keep us from all 
covetous and worldly desires. O Lord Jesus, who art 
exalted to be a Prince and a Saviour, to give repent- 
ance and forgiveness of sin, we do repent of our sins 
before thee, and humbly beseech thee to receive us, 
according to thy promise that him that cometh unto 
thee thou wilt in no wise cast out. Give unto us, O 
Lord, that sense of thy presence which shall preserve 
us from sin; that strength of faith which shall over- 



132 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

come evil; that peace which the world cannot give. 
We bring thee thanks for the mercies of the night, 
and supplicate thy grace for our friends and neigh- 
bors, for the absent dear to us, for thy church, for 
this family, yea, Lord, for the whole family of man- 
kind — the world which thou hast died to save. O 
raise up a faithful ministry, and keep thy servants 
pure. We beseech thee, O Lord, to instruct us in our 
duty, and help us to perform it; to give us a tender 
conscience and an earnest spirit; to uphold us in the 
slippery wajrs of the world and give us sterling in- 
tegrity of heart: and finally to receive us to thy pres- 
ence in the world of endless life. And to the Father, 
the Son, and the Holy Ghost be glory forever. Amen. 
The Lord's Prayer. 

XXIII 

GOD the Father everlasting, whose throne is in the 
heavens, but who art not far from any of thy 
children, graciously receive our thanksgivings, and 
hear us while we pray. For life and strength, for the 
light of a new day, for the comfort and shelter of this 
home, and for the love that binds us to one another 
and to thee, we give thee thanks, O Lord. Strengthen 
and guard us by thy grace, we beseech thee, that we 
spend this day wholly in thy service. Cause us to 
hear thy loving-kindness in the morning, for in thee 
do we trust. Make us to know the way wherein we 
should walk, for we lift up our souls unto thee. We 
commend to thee our neighbors and associates; all 
who are tried or sorrowful, and those living without 
thee in the world. Purify and enrich thy church, and 
extend thy compassion to all mankind. Encourage 
those who work and pray for righteousness and peace 
through all the world, and those who carry thy light 
to the people who sit in darkness. Give power to 
thy spoken word, and make the cross of Jesus to shine 
before men's eyes. Grant unto thy Son to see of the 
travail of his soul and to be satisfied; and give to all 
his people willingness to share in his labors, that 
they may share also his victory; even Jesus Christ, 
our Lord, in whose Name we pray, for whose coming 



PRAYERS FOR USE IN THE FAMILY 133 

we look, and whose sovereignty we own. The Lord's 
Prayer. 

XXIV 

Sunday 

OLORD, our heavenly Father, by whose mercy we 
are enabled to meet together to offer unto thee 
our united prayer and praise, and to meditate upon thy 
word, we thank thee for the privilege o£ divine wor- 
ship, for the ministry of thy holy gospel, and for all 
the means which thou hast appointed for our spiritual 
instruction and the attainment of everlasting life. 
Bless now, we beseech thee, O Lord, our assembling 
as a family in thy name. Enable us so to dispose our 
thoughts and affections that our worship may be ac- 
ceptable in thy sight. Grant that thy holy word> 
taught in its purity, may be received in humble and 
willing hearts. Give us a spiritual discernment of its 
heavenly wisdom, and guide us in a faithful applica- 
tion of it to our own lives. May thy words so abide 
in us that we may abide in thee. Awaken and 
strengthen in us a more abiding interest in what is 
spiritual and eternal, and more abiding love to thee 
and to the neighbor. Lead us to acknowledge thy 
providence in all the experiences of life, and in all 
things to follow thee. Amen. The Lord's Prayer. 

XXV 

ORDER our steps in thy word, O Lord, and let not 
any iniquity have dominion over us. Give us 
strength against our inward foes. Deliver us from 
all idolatry of self and of the world; from all error, 
pride, and self-will. Lead us, O Lord, and teach us* 
that we may avoid all secret sin and open transgres- 
sion; that we may be free from malice and un- 
kindness, from selfish and covetous desires, from 
ingratitude to thee and to our neighbor, from worldly- 
mindedness and discontent. Help us to forgive our 
enemies, to love our neighbor as ourselves, and to do 
unto others as we would that they should do unto us. 
Hold up our goings in thy paths, that our footsteps 
slip not. Keep our tongues from evil and our lips 



134 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

from speaking guile; that we may depart from evil 
and do good; may seek peace and pursue it. Amen. 
The Lord's Prayer. 

XXVI 

\A7E lift up our eyes unto the mountains. From 
vv whence shall our help come? Cur help cometh 
from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. Thou 
wilt not suffer our foot to be moved. Thou who 
keepest us wilt not slumber. Thou art our keeper. 
Thou art our shade upon our right hand. The sun 
shall not smite us by day, nor the moon by night-. 
Thou wilt keep us from all evil. Thou wilt keep our 
going out and our coming in from this time forth, and 
for evermore. We lift up our eyes unto thee, O thou 
that dwellest in the heavens. As the eyes of servants 
look unto the hand of their masters, and as the eyes 
of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress, so do our 
eyes look unto thee, O Lord our God, until thou have 
mercy upon us. Teach us thy will for this day. We 
earnestly desire to live out the plan of life which thou 
hast for us in thy thought. Reveal it to us as we 
go on day by day. Let us not mar our own life 
by taking any smallest fragment out of thy hands 
into our own. Show us thy way, and make us willing 
to follow in it, even if it is not the way we ourselves 
would choose. May we have a day of goodness and 
mercy. Let us not grieve thee, nor turn away from 
thy commandments. Help us to live well — unselfishly 
and purely. Show us our faults, and then help us to 
overcome them and put them away. Give us grace to 
make restitution if we have taken anything from an- 
other which was not ours; may we be enabled this 
very day to pay it back. Let us never lie, nor steal, 
nor defraud in any way. May the grace of the Lord 
Jesus Christ be upon us. Amen. The Lord's Prayer. 

XXVII 

ALMIGHTY GOD, our heavenly Father, go forth 
with us, we pray thee, to the duties of this day, 
so that all may be done in thy holy Name. Make us 



PRAYERS FOR USE IN THE FAMILY 135 

diligent to perform whatsoever our hands find to do. 
Preserve us from covetousness and from complaint 
of our opportunities. Keep us just and truthful in all 
our dealings. Guard our spirits from anger. Make 
us pitiful toward all those who toil with us or for us, 
Teach us to be patient with those who are ignorant. 
Let us not forget to give the hand of friendship to 
those who are unfortunate or to those cast down by 
affliction. May everyone who has resolved on a better 
life find encouragement in our example and fellowship. 
Give us resignation to thy will when losses and dis- 
appointments come to us. Be graciously pleased to 
take us and all things belonging to us under thy 
fatherly care and protection. All this we ask in the 
Name of him who loved us, and gave himself for us, 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. The Lord's Prayer. 

XXVIII 

OGOD, our heavenly Father, we would commit to 
thy Fatherly care all whom we love, especially 
those who are far away. O Lord, remember them for 
good, be thou with each one of them, keep them out- 
wardly from all harm, and above all bless and 
strengthen them in their souls. Pour out thy Holy 
Spirit upon them to guide them into all truth. Grant 
unto each one of us that we may be standing with our 
loins girded and our lamps burning, waiting for the 
coming of our Lord. And we also bless thy holy 
name for all thy servants departed this life in thy faith 
and fear, beseeching thee to give us grace so to follow 
their good examples, that with them we may be par- 
takers of thy heavenly kingdom; grant this, O Father, 
for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen. The Lord's Prayer. 

XXIX 

WE have thought of thy loving-kindness, O God, 
and a glow of love has filled our hearts. We 
might multiply words of praise for what thou art 
to us, but will do what we believe will please thee 
better — ask thee to open still wider the door of thy 
mercy, and lavish upon us more abundantly the riches 



136 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

of thy grace. Save us from thinking lightly of the 
follies and sins of men, but save us also from censori- 
ous criticism. Help us to see and rejoice in what is 
worthy in our own lives, but save us from being blind 
to our own faults. While we study to understand and 
profit by human precepts, help us to go deeper and 
reach higher to find what God would say to us. "Thy 
commandments are exceeding broad," and we believe 
we can learn more of thee than of any other teacher. 
We want to be more simple in our attitude toward 
thee and more serviceable in our relations with our 
fellow men. Adjust us to thy plan. Help us to 
speak when we ought to speak and to be silent when 
that would be best. Inspire in us the militant spirit 
when we have real battles to fight: make us very meek 
and patient when we are called to suffer. O Lord, 
fulfill our hearts' desire and make us like Jesus Christ. 
For his sake. Amen. The Lord's Prayer. 

XXX 

MERCIFUL FATHER, bless, we beseech thee, 
with all best blessings, both spiritual and tem- 
poral, all members of this family, whether present or 
absent. Bestow upon them, O Lord, such measure of 
earthly prosperity as may be good for them, and keep 
them, if thou wilt, in health and safety. But far above 
all earthly blessings, we ask thee to make this family 
to be a family fearing thee. "Let thy fatherly hand, 
we beseech thee, ever be over them; let thy Holy 
Spirit ever be with them." Unite them together in 
the bonds of holy love, and in the unity of thy holy 
church, that they may abide in thee, and after being 
separated for a little while here below, may be again 
united in that kingdom where they can be parted no 
more forever; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 
The Lord's Prayer. 

XXXI 

O ETERNAL GOD, who alone makest men to be 
of one mind in an house; help us, the members 
of this household, faithfully to fulfill our duties to 



PRAYERS FOR USE IN THE FAMILY 137 

thee and to each other. Put far from us all unkind 
thoughts, anger, and evil speaking. Give us tender 
hearts, full of affection and sympathy toward all. 
Grant us grace to feel the sorrows and trials of others 
as our own, and to bear patiently with their imperfec- 
tions. Preserve us from selfishness, and grant that, 
day by day, walking in love, we may grow up into the 
likeness of thy blessed Son, and be found ready to 
meet him, and to enter with him into that place which 
he has gone to prepare for us ; for his sake, who liveth 
and reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost ever, one 
God, world without end. Amen. 

LORD, make this day to be the day of thy tender 
mercy. Listen to the prayers of all thy children, 
be the Shepherd of the lost, the Guide and Light of 
unbelievers, the Teacher of the simple, the Father of 
the fatherless, the Protector of the oppressed, the 
Physician of the suffering, the Comforter of the dying, 
and bring us all at last to thee, our Refuge and Eter- 
nal Rest. Grant us, O Lord, to pass this day in glad- 
ness and peace, without stumbling and without stain; 
that, reaching the eventide victorious over all tempta- 
tion, we may praise thee. O God, who knowest the 
weakness and corruption of our nature, and the mani- 
fold temptations which we daily meet with, we humbly 
beseech thee to have compassion on our infirmities, 
and to give us the constant assistance of thy Holy 
Spirit; that we may be effectually restrained from sin, 
and excited to our duty. Imprint upon our hearts 
such a dread of thy judgments, and such a grateful 
sense of thy goodness to us, as may make us both 
afraid and ashamed to offend thee. And, above all, 
keep in our minds a lively remembrance of that great 
day, in which we must give a strict account of our 
thoughts, words, and actions; and according to the 
works done in the body, be eternally rewarded or 
punished, by him whom thou hast appointed the Judge 
of quick and dead, thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. The Lord's Prayer. 



i 3 8 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

Various! fJraper* for tfje Jfamtlp 

Bebt cation 

SINCE it is o£ thy mercy, O gracious Father, that 
another day is added to our lives, we here dedicate 
both our souls and our bodies to thee and thy service, 
in a sober, righteous, and godly life: in which resolu- 
tion, do thou, O merciful God, confirm and strengthen 
us, that, as we grow in age, we may grow in grace, 
and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus 
Christ. Amen. 

Jfor tfje Jlougefjolb 

O ALMIGHTY GOD, look graciously upon this 
household as we are now gathered together in thy 
name. Give them whom thou hast set over it, wisdom 
to direct those committed to their charge; give to all 
its members strength to fulfill thy will in the daily 
work to which thou hast appointed them; grant that 
love and peace with all other graces may live and 
grow among them, and that finally we may meet be- 
fore thy throne in heaven, and be united in thy love 
forever; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

WE earnestly pray that thou wilt let thy blessing 
rest upon us, and upon this household. May it 
be meet for thy Sacred Presence. Bless, we beseech 
thee, every member of it; let not one heart be 
estranged from thee by doubt or fear, by pride or 
selfishness. Thou art our Father: teach us to be trust- 
ful as children. We would also remember before thee 
those who are bound to us by ties of kinship and 
friendship, those who have become dear to us in our 
religious life, those who serve us in any way, great 
or small, our benefactors; knowing too thy tender 
compassion, we ask that thy blessed comfort and hope 
may be bestowed upon the suffering in mind and body, 
especially the mourners, the troubled, the sick, the 
weary, the poor, the lonely. And may those who are 
sorely tempted to sin, or who have fallen into sin 
which separates their hearts from thee, be often re- 



VARIOUS PRAYERS FOR THE FAMILY 139 

minded of thy merciful kindness toward them, and so 
be strengthened to resist the evil, and turn from it to 
thee, their Father and Friend; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

&n Cfeemng Bebtcation 

SEND thy peace into our hearts, O Lord, at the 
evening hour, that we may be contented with thy 
mercies of this day, and confident of thy protection 
for this night; and now, having forgiven others, even 
as thou dost forgive us, may we have a pure comfort 
and a healthful rest within the shelter of this home; 
through Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen. 

YDEGARD, O Lord, with thy favor all the members 
-"- of this household. Bind us together in love, sym- 
pathy, and forbearance. Brighten our daily existence 
with those endearing graces that come from thee. 
Help us to live each for the other, and to find our 
happiness in doing good and denying ourselves; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

OGOD, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of 
whom every family in heaven and earth is named, 
grant unto our friends, and to all the members of this 
household, that, according to the riches of thy glory, 
we may be strengthened with might by thy Spirit in 
the inner man, that Christ may dwell in our hearts by 
faith; that we, being rooted and grounded in love, may 
be able to comprehend with all saints what is the 
breadth and length and depth and height, and to know 
the love of Christ which passeth knowledge, that we 
may be filled with all the fullness of God; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

&n €bentng ?Ble**tng 

ABIDE with us, O good Lord, through the night, 
guarding, keeping, guiding, sustaining, sanctify- 
ing, and with thy love gladdening us, that in thee we 
may ever live, and in thee may die; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 



i 4 o SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

r WILL lay me down in peace and take my rest, for 
-*■ it is thou, Lord, only that maketh me to dwell in 
safety. Amen. 

"3Lorb, Peijolb ®uv Jfamtlp" 

r ORD, behold our family here assembled. We thank 
■" thee for this place in which we dwell; for the 
love that unites us; for the peace accorded us this 
day; for the hope with which we expect to-morrow; 
for the health, the work, the food, and the bright skies, 
that make our lives delightful; for our friends in all 
parts of the earth, and our friendly helpers in this 
foreign isle. Let peace abound in our small company. 
Purge out of every heart the lurking grudge. Give us 
grace and strength to forbear and to persevere. 
Offenders, give us the grace to accept and to forgive 
offenders. Forgetful ourselves, help us to bear cheer- 
fully the forgetfulness of others. Give us courage 
and gayety and the quiet mind. Spare to us our 
friends; soften to us our enemies. Bless us if it may 
be in all our innocent endeavors. If it may not, give 
us the strength to encounter that which is to come, 
that we be brave in peril, constant in tribulation, 
temperate in wrath and in all changes of fortune, and 
down to the gates of death, loyal and loving one to 
another. As the clay to the potter, as the windmill to 
the wind, as children to their sire, we beseech of thee 
this help and mercy, for Christ's sake. 

— Robert Louis Stevenson. 

jfor iflutual ©elp in tije ©ousfefjolb 

O HEAVENLY FATHER, shed forth thy blessed 
Spirit richly on all the members of this house- 
hold. Make each one of us an instrument in thy hands 
for good. Purify our hearts, strengthen our minds 
and bodies, fill us with mutual love. Let no pride, no 
self-conceit, no rivalry, no dispute, ever spring up 
among us. Make us earnest and true, wise and pru- 
dent, giving no just cause for offense; and may thy 
holy peace rest upon us this day and every day, 
sweetening our trials, cheering us in our work, and 



VARIOUS PRAYERS FOR THE FAMILY 141 

keeping us faithful to the end; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

jfor tfje Bibtne igregence in tfje ^ome 

ALMIGHTY and everlasting God, be thou present 
with us in all our duties, and grant the protection 
of thy presence to all that dwell in this house, that 
thou mayest be known to be the Defender of this 
household and the Inhabitant of this dwelling; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Gelasian Sacrameniary, A. D.494. 

Jfor (But delations? anb jfrtenb^ anb &U Mm 

WE commend to thy loving-kindness, O God, all 
our relations and friends, that they may be filled 
with thy grace. Have mercy on all sick and dying 
persons, all who are suffering or in sorrow, and grant 
to all who are living in error, or ignorance, or sin, the 
grace of repentance; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

OTHOU, who art the God of all the families of the 
earth, we beseech thee to bless all our friends and 
kindred, wherever they may be; and especially . . . ; 
and to grant that we may ever be knit together in the 
bonds of mutual love; and, above all, that we may 
be members together of the mystical body of Christ; 
through the same, thy Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

tfax gfogent jfrtenbsf 

OLORD of Love, who art not far from any of 
thy children, watch with thy care those who are 
far away from us; be thou about their path; be thou 
within their hearts; be thou their defense upon their 
right hand; give them unfailing trust in thee; grant 
them power against temptation; qualify them for 
whatever task thou givest them to do; deliver them 
from the snares of setting duty aside; make it their 
joy to do thy will. Let not distance break the bonds 



142 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

of love which bind them to us and to thee, but knit 
us closer in thy love; for the sake of Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

0n 0nt Eeabtng: tfie Jfyomt 

OGOD, who art in every place beholding the evil 
and the good, take into thine own keeping our 
dear one now going into the world of strangers. Give 
him courage, prudence, self-control. Grant him a 
right judgment in all things. Raise up for him friends, 
if it be thy will, and deliver him from the snares and 
sorrows of loneliness by the power and joy of thy 
presence. Grant that in every place he may find the 
house of God and the gate of heaven. Safeguard him 
with the ministry of thy never-failing providence, now 
and always; for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord. 

Amen. —Dr. S. Johnson, A. D. 1709. 

& Wttjhinq in tije ^ome 

OGOD, bless thy servants who are about to be 
joined together this day in holy matrimony; keep 
them, we beseech thee, under the protection of thy 
good providence, and make them to have a perpetual 
fear and love of thy holy name. Look, O Lord, merci- 
fully upon them from heaven, and bless them; that 
they obeying thy will and alway being in safety under 
thy protection, may abide in thy love unto their lives' 
end; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Family Prayer Book of the Church of Ireland, A. D. 1895. 

0n letting WLp a 3£eto Jfyomt 

OLORD GOD of our fathers, Giver of life and love, 
give thy blessing to us whom thou hast drawn 
together in love ; surround us with thy protecting care ; 
build thou for us our home; make it to be the abode 
of light and love. May all that is pure, tender, and 
true grow up under its shelter; may all that hinders 
godly union and concord, be driven far from it. Make 
it the center of fresh, sweet, and holy influence. Give 
us wisdom for life, and discretion in the guidance of 



VARIOUS PRAYERS FOR THE FAMILY 143 

our affairs. Let thy Fatherly hand ever be over us, 
and thy Holy Spirit ever be with us. O Lord, bless 
us and ours, and grant us all to inherit thine everlast- 
ing Kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

tfax tfce 3$oav ana Jleetrp 

OGOD, remember in thy mercy the poor and needy, 
the widow and the fatherless, the stranger and the 
friendless, the sick and the dying [and any such known 
to us whom we name in our heart before thee] and 
those who do not pray for themselves and who have 
none to pray for them. Relieve their needs, sanctify 
their sufferings, strengthen their weakness; and in 
due time bring them out of bondage into the glorious 
liberty of the sons of God; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

Jfor igaroon 

GRACIOUS FATHER, give us perfect pardon for 
what is past, and a perfect repentance for all our 
evils, that for the time to come we may, with pure 
spirits, with broken and contrite hearts, with sancti- 
fied lips and holy desires, serve thee religiously, walk 
humbly with thee our God, converse justly and chari- 
tably with men, and possess our souls in patience and 
holiness, and our bodies in sanctification and honor; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Bishop Jeremy Taylor, A. D. 1613* 

©eotcation of (^urselbeg to <^ob'£ g>erbtce 

O ALMIGHTY GOD, who by thy holy apostle hast 
taught us to present our bodies a living sacrifice, 
holy, acceptable unto thee, which is our reasonable 
service; we come unto thee in the name of Jesus 
Christ, and we devote and dedicate ourselves wholly 
to thy service, henceforth to live only to thy glory. 
Do thou, the very God of peace, sanctify us wholly, 
and preserve our whole spirit and soul and body 
blameless, unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 
Amen. 



144 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

jfor tfje Spirit of draper 

O ALMIGHTY GOD, from whom every good 
prayer cometh, and who pourest out on all who 
desire it, the spirit of grace and supplications; de- 
liver us, when we draw nigh to thee, from coldness of 
heart and wanderings of mind; that with steadfast 
thoughts and kindled affections we may worship thee 
in spirit and in truth; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

LORD, our God, who keepest covenant and promises 
with those that love thee with their whole heart; 
who art the life of all, the help of those that flee unto 
thee, the hope of those who cry unto thee; cleanse us 
from our sins, secret and open, and from every 
thought displeasing to thy goodness — cleanse our 
bodies and souls, our hearts and consciences, that with 
a pure heart and a clear soul, with perfect love and 
calm hope, we may venture confidently and fearlessly 
to pray unto thee. Amen. 

jfov $urttp 

O ETERNAL GOD, who hast taught us by thy Holy 
Word that our bodies are temples of thy Spirit, 
keep us, we most humbly beseech thee, temperate and 
holy in thought, word, and deed, that we, with all the 
pure in heart, may see thee, and be made like unto 
thee in thy heavenly kingdom; through Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

WHATSOEVER things are pure and lovely, what- 
soever things are gentle and generous, whatso- 
ever things are noble and self-forgetful, honorable and 
of good report, these things, O Lord, grant that we 
may with one accord pursue ; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

jfor a pterins on tfje Opening Bap 

ALMIGHTY GOD, we kneel before thee to ask 
thy blessing upon us this morning. We thank thee 
for the care which has watched over us in the hours 



VARIOUS PRAYERS FOR THE FAMILY 145 

o£ darkness, and we now beseech thee to go forth with 
us to our daily work. Keep us pure and holy by the 
indwelling of thy Holy Spirit. Make us strong and 
of good courage ; let us remember that thou wilt never 
fail nor forsake us. Let neither the cares nor the 
business of the day disturb our trust in thee. May we 
never murmur under any trial, nor be discontented 
with our lot, but raise our affections to things above, 
that we may even now behold thy presence in right- 
eousness. We ask every blessing in the name and 
for the sake of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour. 
Amen. 

& iHomtng draper 

OLORD, lift up the light of thy countenance upon 
us; let thy peace rule in our hearts, and may it 
be our strength and our song, in the house of our 
pilgrimage. We commit ourselves to thy care and 
keeping this day; let thy grace be mighty in us, and 
sufficient for us, and let it work in us both to will 
and to do of thine own good pleasure, and grant us 
strength for all the duties of the day. Keep us from 
sin. Give us the rule over our own spirits, and keep 
us from speaking unadvisedly with our lips. May we 
live together in peace and holy love, and do thou com- 
mand thy blessing upon us, even life for evermore. 
Prepare us for all the events of the day, for we know 
not what a day may bring forth. Give us grace to 
deny ourselves; to take up our cross daily, and to 
follow in the steps of our Lord and Master, Jesus 

Christ OUr Lord. Amen. —Matthew Henry, A. D. 1662. 



rSfor <&uv Cfnlfcren 

OUR FATHER, we ask thee to bless us. We thank 
thee for the new life that has come into our home. 
We bring it to thee in consecration. We would lay it 
in thine arms. We would ask for thy divine keeping of 
it. We cannot keep it, for the world is very full of evil. 
Thou alone canst guard it from harm. We ask thee 
for grace to make our home a fit place for this precious 
life to grow up in. Help us to make it a place of love, 



146 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

a place of prayer, a place of all beautiful living, a place 
sweet with heaven's fragrance. Make us fit to hold 
this child in our arms, to clasp it to our bosom, to be 
its teachers and guides. Help us to answer its ques- 
tions, to solve its problems, and to be to it a pattern 
of holy living. 

TDLESS our children with healthful bodies, with 
■*-^ good understandings, with the graces and gifts of 
thy Spirit, with sweet dispositions and holy habits; 
and sanctify them throughout in their bodies, souls, 
and spirits, and keep them unblameable to the coming 
of our Lord Jesus. Amen. 

— Bishop Jeremy Taylor, A. D. 1613. 

ALMIGHTY GOD and heavenly Father, we thank 
thee for the children which thou hast given us; 
give us also grace to train them in thy faith, fear, and 
love, that as they advance in years they may grow in 
grace, and may hereafter be found in the number of 
thine elect children; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 

Amen. — Bishop Cosin, A. D. 1594- 

BLESS, we beseech thee, our beloved children. 
Keep them in health of body; but, above all, may 
their souls prosper and be in health. Teach them to 
love the Saviour, who said, "Suffer the little children 
to come unto me." May they in early youth take him 
to be their Master and Friend, and ever follow in 
his steps. Preserve them from the evil that is in the 
world. As they grow in years, may they grow in 
grace; and finally may they be thine in that day when 
thou makest up thy jewels. Amen. 

MERCIFUL FATHER, regard with thy tender love 
and favor thy children. Grant that as they have 
been admitted by baptism into the fellowship of thy 
people, so they may evermore grow in grace and in 
the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. Keep them 
in all temptation; teach them thy truth; and grant 
that they may early give their hearts to thee; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 



VARIOUS PRAYERS FOR THE FAMILY 147 

Jfor ^fjose Who ®rain Cfnluren 

OGOD, since thou hast laid the little children into 
our arms in utter helplessness, with no protection 
save our love, we pray that the sweet appeal of their 
baby hands may not be in vain. Let no innocent life 
in ouracities be quenched again in useless pain through 
our ignorance and sin. May we who are mothers and 
fathers seek eagerly to join wisdom to our love, lest 
love itself be deadly when unguided by knowledge. 
Bless the doctors and nurses, and all the friends of 
men who are giving of their skill and devotion to the 
care of our children. If there are any who were 
kissed by love in their own infancy, but who have no 
child to whom they may give as they have received, 
grant them such largeness of sympathy that they may 
rejoice to pay their debt in full to all -children who 
have need of them. Forgive us, our Father, for the 
heartlessness of the past. Grant us great tenderness 
for all babes who suffer, and a growing sense of the 
divine mystery that is brooding in the soul of every 
child. For the sake of Christ, our Saviour. 

— W. Rauschenbusch, IQI2. 

GOOD SHEPHERD, who earnest the lambs in 
thine arms, give thy Spirit, we beseech thee, to 
all those engaged in training the young; make them 
patient, grant them tenderness, sincerity, and firmness, 
and enable them to lead the young hearts to thee, for 
thy name's sake. Amen. 



Cfnlbren'g ffiaptv* 

"Eorb, &eacf) Wig to $rap" 

OGOD, our Father, thou hast promised to hear thy 
children when they pray to thee, help us now 
to pray; teach us what to ask for; help us to mean 
what we say, and give us grace to love thee more 
and more, and to love the people for whom we pray, 
for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen. 



148 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

13 JHormng draper 

OMOST loving Saviour Jesus Christ, who did 
suffer little children to come unto thee, and didst 
lay thy hands upon them and bless them, look upon 
us also thy children, and bless us. We thank thee 
that thou hast kept us safe through the nisht, and 
we pray thee to take care of us this day. Bless our 
father and mother, our brothers and sisters, and all 
our friends; help us to love and serve thee more and 
more. Amen. 

g draper for Hmnoap JHormng 

O HEAVENLY FATHER, we thank thee for taking 
care of us during the past night, and now help us 
to remember that this is thine own day. May we love 
thy day, and never do anything which we know to be 
wrong. When we go to thy house of prayer may we 
be able to sing thy praises, and understand thy Word, 
and try to worship thee. So may we be helped to be 
better in the week days, for Jesus Christ's sake. 
Amen. 

FORGIVE us, O merciful Father, all our sins, and 
of thy loving-kindness watch over us through the 
day. Keep us safe from all dangers, and help us in 
all temptations. Keep us from all evil thoughts, from 
ail careless words, and from all wrong actions. Make 
us diligent in our work, unselfish and patient with all 
with whom we have to do. Help us to remember the 
example of the Lord Jesus, and try at work and at 
home to be like him. For his sake we ask it. Amen. 



during Mlntgg 

OGOD our heavenly Father, who knowest our 
weakness and wilt not lay upon us more than we 
can bear, help us to bear it patiently. May we through 
suffering learn to love thee better, for Jesus Christ's 
sake. Amen. 



CHILDREN'S PRAYERS 149 

jfor a ^trtfjbap 

IT is my birthday, Lord Jesus, my Saviour, and I 
thank thee for giving me the wonderful gift of life. 
I pray thee that I may use my life rightly, that I may 
try to grow braver, kinder, wiser and truer year by 
year. I thank thee for all the joys of the past year, 
and pray thee to bless me through the coming one. 
Help me to conquer my faults and live more to thy 
glory. Grant me thy grace to help all those around 
me, and to try and make them happy. Be with me 
step by step all through this new year, and keep me 
safe unto the end; for thy sake. Amen. 

nfor Moxninq, 

NOW I awake and see the light, 
'Tis God has kept me through the night; 
To him I lift my voice and pray, 
That he will keep me through the day. 

jfor Cfcemng 

TVTOW I lay me down to sleep. 

■" I pray thee, Lord, my soul to keep. 

If I should die before I wake, 

I pray thee, Lord, my soul to take. 

And this I ask for Jesus' sake. Amen. 

3for J^eto-gear 

* A MOTHER year is dawning! 
**■ Dear Master, let it be, 
In working or in waiting, 
Another year with thee. 

Another year is dawning! 

Dear Master, let it be 
On earth, or else in heaven, 

Another year with thee. 



150 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

(graces for tfje Rafale 

^pHE Lord make us grateful for all his mercies, and 
-■" add his blessing, for Christ's sake. Amen. 

ALMIGHTY GOD, who providest for us, nourish 
•"■ our souls with the Bread of Life in Jesus Christ. 
Amen. 

T^ATHER, wilt thou enrich and strengthen us by 
•*■ these thy gifts, and show us thy way that we may 
walk in it. We ask it in Christ. Amen. 

FATHER, be pleased to refresh us by this food. 
Open before us the way of peace and service and 
eternal life, for Christ's sake. Amen. 

LORD, help us to receive all good things as from 
thy hand, and to use them to thy praise. Amen. 

HEAVENLY FATHER, make us thankful to thee, 
and mindful of others, as we receive these bless- 
ings, in Jesus' Name. Amen. 

FATHER in heaven, sustain our bodies with this 
food, our hearts with true friendship, and our 
souls with thy truth, for Christ's sake. Amen. 

BE present at our table, Lord. 
Be here and everywhere adored. 
These mercies bless, and grant that we 
May feast in paradise with thee. Amen. 

LORD JESUS, be our holy Guest, 
Our morning Joy, our evening Rest ; 
And with our daily bread impart 
Thy love and peace to every heart. Amen. 



BIBLE READINGS FOR FAMILY WORSHIP 1 

"These words thou shalt teach diligently unto thy children." "Write 
them upon the doorposts of thy house." — Deuteronomy 6. 7-9. 

jfor (Slbenttbe 

OLORD our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all 
the earth! who hast set thy glory above the 
heavens. 

2 Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou 
ordained strength because of thine enemies, that thou 
mightest still the enemy and the avenger. 

3 When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy 
fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast or- 
dained; 

4 What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and 
the son of man, that thou visitest him? 

5 For thou hast made him a little lower than the 
angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honor. 

6 Thou madest him to have dominion over the 
works of thy hands ; thou hast put all things under his 
feet: 

7 All sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the 
field; 

8 The fowl of the air, and the fish of the sea, and 
whatsoever passeth through the paths of the seas. 

9 O Lord our Lord, how excellent is thy name in 
all the earth! —Psalm 8. 

& Jfflorning $£alm 

THE heavens declare the glory of God; and the 
firmament sheweth his handywork. 

2 Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto 
night sheweth knowledge. 

3 There is no speech nor language, where their 
voice is not heard. 



1 Note: See also lessons in the Weslty Sunday Service, pp. 201, 202. 
151 



152 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

4 Their line is gone out through all the earth, and 
their words to the end of the world. In them hath 
he set a tabernacle for the sun, 

5 Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his cham- 
ber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race. 

6 His going forth is from the end of the heaven, 
and his circuit unto the ends of it : and there is nothing 
hid from the heat thereof. 

7 The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the 
soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise 
the simple. 

8 The statutes of the Lord are right, repoicing the 
heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, en- 
lightening the eyes. 

9 The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: 
the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous alto- 
gether. 

io More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than 
much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the 
honeycomb. 

ii Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and 
in keeping of them there is great reward. 

12 Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me 
from secret faults. 

13 Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous 
sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall 
I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great 
transgression. 

14 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation 
of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my 
strength, and my redeemer. —Psalm 19. 

W$t g>fjepfserb ip^alm 

THE Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 
2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: 
he leadeth me beside the still waters. 

3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths 
of righteousness for his name's sake. 

4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the 
shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with 
me ; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. 



BIBLE READINGS 153 

5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence 
of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; 
my cup runneth over. 

6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all 
the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of 
the Lord for ever. —Psalm 23. 

jfearlesf* GTruSt in &ab 

THE Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall 
I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of 
whom shall I be afraid? 

2 When the wicked, even mine enemies and my 
foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled 
and fell. 

3 Though a host should encamp against me, my 
heart shall not fear: though war should rise against 
me, in this will I be confident. 

4 One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I 
seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord 
all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the 
Lord, and to inquire in his temple. 

5 For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his 
pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide 
me; he shall set me up upon a rock. 

6 And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine 
enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his 
tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will 
sing praises unto the Lord. —Psalm 27. 1-6. 

Jfret 35ot, but ®ru£t tn tje Eorb 

FRET not thyself because of evil doers, neither 
be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. 

2 For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, 
and wither as the green herb. 

3 Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou 
dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. 

4 Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give 
thee the desires of thine heart. 

5 Commit thy way unto the Lord ; trust also in him ; 
and he shall bring it to pass. 

6 And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the 
light, and thy judgment as the noonday. 



154 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

7 Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him: fret 
not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, 
because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to 
pass. 

8 Cease from anger, and forsake wrath : fret not 
thyself in any wise to do evil. 

9 For evil doers shall be cut off: but those that 
wait upon the Lord, they shall inherit the earth. 

— Psalm 37. i-q. 

<§o& (But Refuge— tE%e Wat ^tfalm 

GOD is our refuge and strength, a very preasant help 
in trouble. 

2 Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be 
removed, and though the mountains be carried into 
the midst of the sea; 

3 Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, 
though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. 
Selah. 

4 There is a river, the streams whereof shall make 
glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles 
of the Most High. 

5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be 
moved: God shall help her, and that right early. 

6 The heathen raged, the kingdoms were moved: he 
uttered his voice, the earth melted. 

7 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob 
is our refuge. Selah. 

8 Come, behold the works of the Lord, what desola- 
tions he hath made in the earth. 

9 He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the 
earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in 
sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire. 

io Be still, and know that I am God: I will be ex- 
alted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. 

ii The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob 
is our refuge. —Psalm 46. 

penitence anb draper 

HAVE mercy upon me, O God, according to thy 
lovingkindness : according unto the multitude of 
thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. 



BIBLE READINGS 155 

2 Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and 
cleanse me from my sin. 

3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin 
is ever before me. 

4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done 
this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified 
when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest. 

5 Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did 
my mother conceive me. 

6 Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: 
and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know 
wisdom. 

7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash 
me, and I shall be whiter than snow. 

8 Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones 
which thou hast broken may rejoice. 

9 Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine 
iniquities. 

10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a 
right spirit within me. 

11 Cast me not away from thy presence; and take 
not thy Holy Spirit from me. 

12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and 
uphold me with thy free Spirit. 

13 Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and 
sinners shall be converted unto thee. 

14 Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou 
God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud 
of thy righteousness. 

15 O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall 
shew forth thy praise. 

16 For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give 
it: thou delightest not in burnt offering. 

17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a 
broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not 
despise. 

18 Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion: build 
thou the walls of Jerusalem. 

19 Then shalt thou be pleased with the sacrifices of 
righteousness, with burnt offering and whole burnt 
offering: then shall they offer bullocks upon thine 
altar. —Psalm 51. 



156 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

GOD be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause 
his face to shine upon us ; 

2 That thy way may be known upon earth, thy sav- 
ing health among all nations. 

3 Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the 
people praise thee. 

4 O let the nations be glad and sing for joy: for 
thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern 
the nations upon earth. Selah. 

5 Let the people praise thee, O God;, let all the 
people praise thee. 

6 Then shall the earth yield her increase; and God, 
even our own God, shall bless us. 

7 God shall bless us; and all the ends of the earth 
shall fear him. —Psalm 67. 

3ht tfje Secret of ^tsi ^presence 

IJE that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most 
-*— ■- High shall abide under the shadow of the Al- 
mighty. 

2 I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my 
fortress: my God; in him will I trust. 

3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the 
fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. 

4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under 
his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield 
and buckler. 

5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; 
nor for the arrow that flieth by day; 

6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; 
nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. 

7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand 
at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee. 

8 Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see 
the reward of the wicked. 

9 Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my 
refuge, even the Most High, thy habitation; 

10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any 
plague come nigh thy dwelling. 



BIBLE READINGS 157 

11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, 
to keep thee in all thy ways. 

12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou 
dash thy foot against a stone. 

13 Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the 
young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under 
feet. 

14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore 
will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he 
hath known my name. 

15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: 
I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and 
honor him. 

16 With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him 
my salvation. —Psalm 91. 

& $£alm of praise 

TV/TAKE a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. 
**■"• 2 Serve the Lord with gladness: come before 
his presence with singing. 

3 Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that 
hath made us, and not we ourselves ; we are his people, 
and the sheep of his pasture. 

4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into 
his courts with praise : be thankful unto him, and bless 
his name. 

5 For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; 
and his truth endureth to all generations. —Psalm 100. 

W$t Horo 3te Ofl&p deeper 

I WILL lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from 
whence cometh my help. 

2 My help cometh from the Lord, which made 
heaven and earth. 

3 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that 
keepeth thee will not slumber. 

4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slum- 
ber nor sleep. 

5 The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade 
upon thy right hand. 

6 The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon 
by night. 



158 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

7 The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he 
shall preserve thy soul. 

8 The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy 
coming in from this time forth, and even for ever- 
more. —Psalm I2i. 

Ufor tfje practice of tfje $resfence of <@oo 

OLORD, thou hast searched me, and known me. 
2 Thou knowest my downsitting and mine up- 
rising; thou understandest my thought afar off. 

3 Thou compassest my path and my lying down, 
and art acquainted with all my ways. 

4 For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O 
Lord, thou knowest it altogether. 

5 Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid 
thine hand upon me. 

6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is 
high, I cannot attain unto it. 

7 Whither shall I go from thy Spirit? or whither 
shall I flee from thy presence? 

8 If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I 
make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. 

9 If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in 
the uttermost parts of the sea; 

io Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right 
hand shall hold me. 

ii If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; 
even the night shall be light about me. 

12 Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the 
night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light 
are both alike to thee. 

23 Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, 
and know my thoughts: 

24 And see if there be any wicked way in me, and 
lead me in the way everlasting. —Psalm 139. 1-12, 23, 24. 

jfear tfje Eorb Wbv <^ob to Heep %i& Statutes: 

NOW these are the commandments, the statutes, and 
the judgments, which the Lord your God com- 
manded to teach you, that ye might do them in the 
land whither ye go to possess it: That thou mightest 



BIBLE READINGS 159 

fear the Lord thy God, to keep all his statutes and his 
commandments, which I command thee, thou, and thy 
son, and thy son's son, all the days of thy life; and that 
thy days may be prolonged. Hear therefore, O Israel, 
and observe to do it; that it may be well with thee, 
and that ye may increase mightily, as the Lord God of 
thy fathers hath promised thee, in the land that floweth 
with milk and honey. Hear, O Israel: The Lord our 
God is one Lord: And thou shalt love the Lord thy 
God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with 
all thy might. And these words, which I command thee 
this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach 
them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of 
them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou 
walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and 
when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a 
sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as. frontlets 
between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon 
the posts of thy house, and on thy gates. 

— Deuteronomy 6. i-g. 

"ffit Wa& Wounttth for 0uv ^Transgressions;" 

TDUT he was wounded for our transgressions, he was 
■*-* bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our 
peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are 
healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have 
turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath 
laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed, 
and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: 
he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a 
sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not 
his mouth. He was taken from prison and from judg- 
ment: and who shall declare his generation? for he 
was cut off out of the land of the living: for the trans- 
gression of my people was he stricken. And he made 
his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his 
death; because he had done no violence, neither was 
any deceit in his mouth. Yet it pleased the Lord to 
bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt 
make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, 
he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the Lord 
shall prosper in his hand. —Isaiah 53. 5-10. 






i6o SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

Hiit Mott GEfjan Jfleat 

^THEREFORE I say unto you, Take no thought 
■*- for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall 
drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. 
Is not the life more than meat, and the body than 
raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow 
not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet 
your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much 
better than they? Which of you by taking thought 
can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take 
ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the 
field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they 
spin: and yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in 
all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 
Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, 
which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, 
shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little 
faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall 
we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal 
shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do 
the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth 
that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye 
first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and 
all these things shall be added unto you. Take there- 
fore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall 
take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto 
the day is the evil thereof. —Matthew 6. 25-34- 

W&t #oo& ibamaritan 

AND, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted 
him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit 
eternal life? He said unto him, What is written in 
the law? how readest thou? And he answering said, 
Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, 
and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and 
with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself. And 
he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, 
and thou shalt live. But he, willing to justify himself, 
said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbor? And Jesus 
answering said, A certain man went down from Jeru- 
salem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which 



BIBLE READINGS 161 

stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and 
departed, leaving him half dead. And by chance there 
came down a certain priest that way; and when he 
saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise 
a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked 
on him, and passed by on the other side. But a cer- 
tain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was; 
and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, and 
went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil 
and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought 
him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the mor- 
row when he departed, he took out two pence, and 
gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care 
of him: and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I 
come again, I will repay thee. Which now of these 
three, thinkest thou, was neighbor unto him that fell 
among the thieves? And he said, He that shewed 
mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and 
do thou likewise. — Luke 10. 25-37- 

AND he said, A certain man had two sons: and the 
younger of them said to his father, Father, give 
me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he 
divided unto them his living. And not many days 
after the younger son gathered all together, and took 
his journey into a far country, and there wasted his 
substance with riotous living. And when he had spent 
all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he 
began to be in want. And he went and joined himself 
to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his 
fields to feed swine. And he would fain have filled 
his belly with the husks that the swine did eat : and no 
man gave unto him. And when he came to himself, 
he said, How many hired servants of my father's have 
bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! 
I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto 
him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before 
thee, and am no more worthy to be called thy son: 
make me as one of thy hired servants. And he arose, 
and came to his father. But when he was yet a great 



162 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and 
ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. And the 
son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against 
heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be 
called thy son. But the father said to his servants, 
Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put 
a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: and bring 
hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and 
be merry: for this my son was dead, and is alive 
again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to 
be merry. —Luke 15. 11-24. 

<&oh &o Eobeb tfje Woxlh 

FOR God so loved the world, that he gave his only 
begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him 
should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God 
sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; 
but that the world through him might be saved. He 
that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that 
believeth not is condemned*already, because he hath 
not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of 
God. And this is the condemnation, that light is come 
into the world, and men loved darkness rather than 
light, because their deeds were evil. For every one 
that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to 
the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But 
he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds 
may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God. 

— John 3. 16-21. 

Mtn &nofem bp QEijetr Jfruttsf 

AND the Jews marveled, saying, How knoweth this 
man letters, having never learned? Jesus an- 
swered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but 
his that sent me. If any man will do his will, he shall 
know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or 
whether I speak of myself. He that speaketh of him- 
self seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his 
glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unright- 
eousness is in him. Did not Moses give you the law, 
and yet none of you keepeth the law? Why go ye 
about to kill me? The people answered and said, 



BIBLE READINGS 163 

Thou hast a devil: who goeth about to kill thee? 
Jesus answered and said unto them, I have done one 
work, and ye all marvel. — John 7. 15-21. 

W&t Wav, tfje Crutf), tjje Hilt 

LET not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, 
believe also in me. In my Father's house are 
many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told 
you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go 
and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and 
receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye 
may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way 
ye know. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know 
not whither 'thou goest; and how can we know the 
way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, 
and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by 
me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my 
Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and 
have seen him. —John 14. 1-7. 

^romtee of tjje Comforter 

AND whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will 
*"■ I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 
If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it. 
If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will 
pray the Father, and he shall give you another Com- 
forter, that he may abide with you for ever; even 
the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, 
because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but 
ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall 
be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will 
come to you. Yet a little while, and the world seeth 
me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall 
live also. At that day ye shall know that I am in my 
Father, and ye in me, and I in you. He that hath my 
commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth 
me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my 
Father. . . . These things have I spoken unto you, being 
yet present with you. But the Comforter, which is 
the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my 
name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all 



i64 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said 
unto you. Peace I leave with you, my peace I give 
unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. 
Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. 

— John 14. 13-21, 25-27. 

Storing Jfrutt 

F AM the true vine, and my Father is the husband- 
•*■ man. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit 
he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, 
he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. 
Now ye are clean through the word which I have 
spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As 
the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide 
in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. 
I am the vine, ye are the branches. He that abideth 
in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much 
fruit; for without me ye can do nothing. If a man 
abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is 
withered; and men gather them, and cast them into 
the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and 
my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, 
and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father 
glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my 
disciples. —John 15 1-8. 

(Sob's gngel ^tanotng fcp $aul 

AND when neither sun nor stars in many days ap- 
peared, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope 
that we should be saved was then taken away. But 
after long abstinence, Paul stood forth in the midst 
of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto 
me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have 
gained this harm and loss. And now I exhort you to 
be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any 
man's life among you, but of the ship. For there 
stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, 
and whom I serve, saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must 
be brought before Cesar: and, lo, God hath given thee 
all them that sail with thee. Wherefore, sirs, be of 
good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even 
as it was told me. — Acts 27. 20-25. 



BIBLE READJNGS 165 

W$t Umpremacp of Eobe 

/ TPHOUGH I speak with the tongues of men and of 
■*■ angels, and have not charity, I am become as 
sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I 
have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mys- 
teries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, 
so that I could remove mountains, and have not 
charity, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my 
goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body 
to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me 
nothing. Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity 
envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed 
up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her 
own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; re- 
joiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; 
beareth all things believeth all things, hopeth all 
things, endureth all things. Charity never faileth: but 
whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether 
there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be 
knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, 
and we prophesy in part. But when that which is per- 
fect is come, then that which is in part shall be done 
away. When I was a child, I spake as a child, I under- 
stood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I be- 
came a man, I put away childish things. For now we 
see through a glass, darkly ; but then face to face : now 
I know in part; but then shall I know even as also 
I am known. And now abideth faith, hope, charity, 
these three; but the greatest of these is charity. 

— 1 Corinthians 13. 

Wdftk in tfje Spirit 

THIS I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall 
not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh 
lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the 
flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other; 
so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But 
if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. 
Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are 
these, Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lascivious- 
ness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emula- 
tions, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, mur- 



166 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

ders, drunkenness, revellings and such like: of the 
which I tell you before, as I have also told you in 
time past, that they which do such things shall not 
inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the 
Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, 
goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such 
there is no law. And they that are Christ's have cruci- 
fied the flesh with the affections and lusts. 

— Galatians 5. 16-24. 

3J ?£oto Mv Ifcnees unto tje Jfatfjer 

FOR this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of 
our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole 
family in heaven and earth is named, that he would 
grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be 
strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man ; 
that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that 
ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able 
to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, 
and length, and depth, and height; and to know the 
love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye 
might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto 
him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all 
that we ask or think, according to the power that 
worketh in us,* unto him be glory in the church by 
Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. 

Amen. — Ephesians 3- 14-21. 

W$t Wfyolt ^rrnor of (Sob 

FINALLY, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and 
in the power of his might. Put on the whole 
armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against 
the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against 
flesh and blood, but against principalities, against 
powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this 
world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 
Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, 
that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and 
having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having 
your loins girt about with truth, and having on the 
breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with 
the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, 



BIBLE READINGS 167 

taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able 
to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take 
the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, 
which is the word of God: praying always with all 
prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching 
thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for 
all saints; and for me, that utterance may be given 
unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make 
known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am 
an ambassador in bonds; that therein I may speak 

boldly, as I OUght tO Speak. —Ephesians 6. 10-20. 

(gain anb Hosisf for Cfjrtet 

BUT what things were gain to me, those I counted 
loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count ail 
things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge 
of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered 
the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, 
that I may win Christ, and be found in him, not 
having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, 
but that which is through the faith of Christ, the 
righteousness which is of God by faith: that I may 
know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the 
fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable 
unto his death; if by any means I might attain unto 
the resurrection of the dead. Not as though I had 
already attained, either were already perfect: but I 
follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which 
also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I 
count not myself to have apprehended: but this one 
thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, 
and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 
I press toward the mark for the prize of the high 
calling of God in Christ Jesus. —Philippians 3. 7-14- 

&bt Wap of $eace 

"DEJOICE in the Lord always: and again I say, Re- 
-^ joice. Let your moderation be known unto all 
men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; 
but in every thing by prayer and supplication with 
thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto 



168 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

God. And the peace of God, which passeth all under- 
standing, shall keep your hearts and minds through 
Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things 
are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever 
things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatso- 
ever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good 
report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any 
praise, think on these things. —PhUippians 4. 4-8. 

W$z &tber of Wattv of 3Ufe 

AND he shewed me a pure river of water of life, 
clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of 
God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of 
it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree 
of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and 
yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the 
tree were for the healing of the nations. And there 
shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and 
of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve 
him: and they shall see his face; and his name shall 
be in their foreheads. And there shall be no night 
there ; and they need no candle, neither light of the 
sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they 
shall reign for ever and ever. —Revelation 22. 1-5. 

Boers; of tfje Wavb 

T^\0 not err, my beloved brethren. Every good gift 
-■-^ and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh 
down from the Father of lights, with whom is no 
variableness, neither shadow of turning. Of his own 
will begat he us with the word of truth, that we 
should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. Where- 
fore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to 
hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: for the wrath of man 
worketh not the righteousness of God. Wherefore 
lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, 
and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which 
is able to save your souls. But be ye doers of the 
word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. 
For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, 
he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a 



BIBLE READINGS 169 

glass: for he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, 
and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he 
was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of 
liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forget- 
ful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be 
blessed in his deed. If any man among you seem to 
be religious, and bridleth^ not his tongue, but de- 
ceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain. 
Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father 
is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their 
affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the 

world. —James I. 16-27. 



$£alms for Common Woxgfyp^ or tor tfje 
Jfamtlp &itar 

PSALMS FOR DAYS AND SEASONS 

Advent Sunday 8, 36, 96, 97, 98 

Christmas Day 8, 19, 45 

Palm Sunday 24, 97, no 

Holy Week .... 42, 43, 51, 71, 94, 116, 120 

Good Friday 22, 40, 54, 64, 88 

Easier Even 4, 16, 27, 30 

Easter Day 2, 57, 113, 118 

Ascension Day 24, 47, 93, no 

PSALMS FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS 

Missions . . . 2, 47, 67, 68, 72, 96, 97, 126 

Social Service 37, 43, 57, 72, 112 

Christian Education ...... 25, 119 

Church Unity 67, 122, 133 

National Festival . . 47, 48, 65, 66. 78,. 99, 100, 145 
National Fast . . 3, 12, 20, 44, 51, 56, 74, 79, 80, 102 
Thanksgiving Day and Harvest Festival . 65, 67, 103, 

104, 107, 126, 147, 148, 150. 

Evening . . . . . . . 4, 91, 134 

Prayer 26, 43, 141 

Penitence 42, 51 

The Kingdom 72, 96 

Intercession 80 

Worship 84, 122 



PRAYERS FOR SPECIAL OBJECTS AND 
PERSONS 

jfor ®f)oge in affliction 

A LMIGHTY and everlasting God, the Comfort of 
■**■ the sad, and the Strength of sufferers, let the 
prayers of those that cry out of any tribulation come 
unto thee; that all may rejoice to find that thy mercy 
is present with them in their afflictions; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

TLJAVE compassion, we beseech thee, O Lord, upon 
*•-*■ all those whose hearts are touched with sorrow, 
whose spirits are troubled or cast down within them. 
O Lord, remember those to whom the burdens of this 
life bring dimness or darkness of soul. Send them 
help from above, and have mercy on all who suffer 
in body or mind, from whatever cause. O Lord, have 
mercy on them continually. Amen. 

ALMIGHTY GOD, who in the time of our shadow 
and darkness canst be our only true and lasting 
light; look upon us thy sad children with thy constant 
mercy, and give unto us the spirit of understanding 
promised by thy dear Son. When our eyes no longer 
behold what we have loved, and when we listen for 
the footsteps of those who have gone out of our sight, 
and hear them not, what can we do but turn to thee? 
And when our hearts fail us, and we sigh for that 
which cannot be, and no traveler comes back from 
that far country, and there are none to comfort us, 
make us to trust in thee. Then comfort our souls 
with the words of thy Son, I go to prepare a place 
for you. And if I go, I will come again, and receive 
you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be 
also. Give us this comfort of Christ through the 
170 



FOR THOSE IN AFFLICTION 171 

Spirit of truth, in whom grant us all to abide for ever- 
more; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

OMOST MERCIFUL FATHER, look down in thy 
infinite pity upon these bereaved ones, smitten to 
the dust, and overwhelmed with the greatness and sud- 
denness of this sorrow. Help them to bear the burden 
of this grief. Help them to believe that thou lovest 
them. Let thy love shine graciously upon them in 
this dark day. Grant unto them thy blessing of resig- 
nation and trust in thee. Support and comfort them 
with thy Holy Spirit. And enable them so to do and 
to bear thy holy will, that after all the changes and 
trials of this mortal life they may, in thy paradise, 
be united again with loved ones gone before; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

O LOVING JESUS, who didst take little children 
unto thine arms to bless them; we believe that 
thou hast received the child now hidden from our 
sight. Thou lovedst him better than we loved him. 
Thou knewest what was best for him better than we 
knew. Thou wiliest, in thy love, that he should be 
with thee where thou art. We ask thee, O our Saviour, 
to have mercy on us who remain. Make all thy chil- 
dren to know how short and uncertain their time is. 
May they learn to love thee in obedience and inno- 
cence, that so, when thou callest them away, their eyes 
may see the King in his beauty, and their voices join 
in the songs of those who praise thee day and night 
in thy temple. And unto thee, O blessed Lord Jesus, 
with the Father and the Holy Spirit shall be glory 
forever and ever. Amen. 

OTHOU, who art the ever-blessed God, the under- 
lying Peace of the world, and who wouldst draw 
all men into the companionship of thy joy; speak, 
we beseech thee, to this thy servant, for whom we 
pray. Take him by the hand and say unto him, "Fear 
not; for I am with thee. I have called thee by my 
name; thou art mine. ,, Put such a spirit of trust 
within him that all fear and foreboding shall be cast 



172 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 



mav 



out, and that right reason and calm assurance may 
rule his thoughts and impulses. Let quietness and 
confidence be his strength. Reveal to him the vision 
of a universe guided and governed by thy wise and 
loving care; and show him that around and about him 
are thy unseen and beneficent powers. Lift up his 
whole being into communion with thy life and 
thought. Let him ever remember that thou dost not 
give to any the spirit of fearfulness, but a spirit of 
power and love and self-mastery. In this faith, grant, 
O Lord, that he may summon the energies of his soul 
against the miseries that cast him down. Give him 
courage, confidence, an untroubled heart, and a love 
that loves all creatures, great and small, for thy love's 

Sake. Amen. —Samuel McComb. 

Ityattfeggtbmg for &ecoberp 

O FATHER OF MERCIES, we thank thee in behalf 
of the member of this family whom thou hast re- 
stored to health. We cried unto thee, and thou hast 
healed him. We trusted in thee, and thou hast helped 
us. Therefore will we praise thy name together. 
Grant, O Lord, that the life which thou hast saved 
may be more entirely devoted to thy service, and that 
we may learn to love thee, and trust in thee more and 
more; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Jfor tfie Hucfe anb 23|uns 

O CHRIST our Lord, who art the Physician of 
salvation, grant unto all who are sick the aid of 
heavenly healing. Look upon all faithful people who 
are sick and who love to call upon thy name, and take 
their souls into thy keeping, and vouchsafe to deliver 
them from all sickness and infirmity; through Jesus 

Christ. Amen. — Mozarabic Liturgy, before A. D. 700. 

OGOD, our refuge and strength, who art a very 
present help in trouble, we know that thou wilt 
look graciously upon this thy servant, and send him 
patience and comfort in this time of his great distress. 
Thou wilt strengthen him with the consolations of 



FOR THOSE IN AFFLICTION 173 

thy Holy Spirit, and wilt enable him to rise above 
all pain and weakness ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

O FATHER of mercies and God of all comfort, 
our only help in time of need; look down from 
heaven, we humbly beseech thee, behold, visit, and 
relieve thy sick servant, for whom our prayers are 
desired. Look upon him with the eyes of thy mercy; 
comfort him with a sense of thy goodness; preserve 
him from the temptations of the enemy; give him 
patience under his affliction; and, in thy good time, 
restore him to health, and enable him to lead the 
residue of his life in thy fear, and to thy glory. Or 
else give him grace so to take thy visitation, that, 
after this painful life ended, he may dwell with thee 
in life everlasting; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

jf or a g>tcfe Cijtlb 

MOST MERCIFUL SAVIOUR, who lovest little 
children, and thyself didst live as a little child 
upon the earth, we come to thee in behalf of one whom 
we love. Thou art the Good Shepherd and carest for 
the lambs of thy flock, leading them tenderly and bear- 
ing them in thy gentle arms. Bring thou this child, for 
whom our prayer is offered, safely through the time 
of sickness and danger. Teach him to be meek and 
loving and obedient like thyself. Keep him from all 
fretfulness and impatience. Let him feel that thou 
art ever near. Let him learn to love thee better and 
better. And if thou art pleased to restore him to 
health, make him to walk all his days, be they many 
or few, in the way that leadeth to eternal life. Hear 
us, O pitiful and loving Lord, who, with the Father 
and the Holy Ghost, livest and reignest one God, 
world without end. Amen. 

OGOD, whose dear Son Jesus Christ didst heal 
many children who were sick, send thy help to 
this child. Make him like Jesus, so that he will obey 
those who care for him. Help him to be quiet, and 



174 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

patient, and cheerful. Quickly take away his pain 
and make him well again; that all his life he may 
glorify thee ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

OLORD JESUS CHRIST, who didst show thy love 
by restoring to health the little ones who were 
brought unto thee, give thy blessing, we beseech thee, 
to the means now used for the healing of this thy 
child; that he may be restored to health and strength; 
and spared to a life of usefulness; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Jfor Wt)o&t to&o Care for tfje £>tcfe 

TWTERCIFUL LORD, we beseech thee to strengthen 
•*■*-■■ and support thy servants who are called to tend 
the sufferer and to watch beside the bed of sickness. 
Give them grace to fulfill their task with patient en- 
durance and with loving tenderness. Comfort them in 
their weariness with the comfort of thy blessed spirit. 
Teach them how good and blessed a thing it is to be 
permitted to minister to the wants of the sick and 
suffering. May this season of self-denying labor be 
a season of much spiritual welfare to their own souls. 
May they learn lessons which shall be blessed to 
themselves. May they learn to number their days, 
and to seek the things above, and to choose the one 
thing needful, while health and strength are given to 
them; so that, when they shall in their turn be called 
to suffer and die, they may be able, with lowly sub- 
mission and loving trust, to commit themselves into 
thy hands to do with them what thou wilt; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Jfor tfte &geb 

THE day is gone, and we give thanks, O Lord. 
Evening is at hand; make it bright unto us. As 
the day has its evening, so also has life. O Lord, 
make the evening of life bright unto thy servant. 
Cast him not away in the time of age; forsake him 
not when his strength faileth him. Abide with him, 
Lord, for it is toward evening, and the day is far 



FOR THE AGED 175 

spent of this fretful life. Let thy strength be made 
perfect in his weakness. Day is fled and gone; life 
too is going. Night cometh; and death cometh also. 
Near as is the end of day, so too the end of life. 
We beseech of thee, O Lord, bless to thy servant his 
closing days. Make them pure, and peaceful, and 
sinless, and if it please thee, painless. Into thy hands, 
O Lord, we commend thy servant, spirit, soul, and 
body. Thou didst make, and thou didst redeem him. 
Guard his lying down, and his rising up, from hence- 
forth even forever. Let him remember thee on his 
bed, and search out his spirit. Let him wake up, and 
be present with thee. We ask all in the name of our 
only Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. 

— Bishop Andr ewes' s Devotions. 

OGOD our heavenly Father, whose gift is length 
of days, help us to make the noblest use of mind 
and body in our advancing years. According to our 
strength apportion thou our work. As thou hast par- 
doned our transgressions, sift the ingatherings of our 
memory that evil may grow dim and good may shine 
forth clearly. We bless thee for thy gifts and espe- 
cially for thy presence and the love of friends in 
heaven and earth. Grant us new ties of friendship, 
new opportunities of service, joy in the growth and 
happiness of children, sympathy with those who bear 
the burdens of the world, clear thought and quiet 
faith. Teach us to bear infirmities with cheerful 
patience. Keep us from narrow pride in outgrown 
ways, blind eyes that will not see the good of change, 
impatient judgments of the methods and experiments 
of others. Let thy peace rule our spirits through all 
the trial of our waning powers. Take from us all fear 
of death and all despair or undue love of life, that 
with glad hearts at rest in thee we may await thy will 
concerning us, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

O ALMIGHTY GOD, when our vision fails and our 
understanding is darkened, when the ways of life 
seem hard and the brightness of life is gone, grant 
to us the wisdom that deepens faith, and enlarges 



176 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

trust. And whensoever thy ways in nature or in the 
soul are hard to be understood, then may our quiet 
confidence, our patient trust, our loving faith in thee 
be great, and as children knowing that they are loved 
and cared for, may we with a quiet mind at all times 
put our trust in thee. So shall we face life without 
fear, and death without faltering; and whatsoever may 
await us in the life to come, give us confident hope 
that whatsoever is best for us, both here and here- 
after, is thy good pleasure, and will be thy law, 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Jfor tbt Communion of ibatnts 

T^7E thank thee for the dear and faithful dead, for 
W those who have made the distant heavens a 
home for us, and whose truth and beauty are even now 
in our hearts. One by one thou dost gather the scat- 
tered families out of the earthly light into the heav- 
enly glory, from the distractions and strife and weari- 
ness of time to the peace of eternity. We thank thee 
for the labors and the joys of these mortal years. We 
thank thee for our deep sense of the mysteries that 
lie beyond our dust, and for the eye of faith which 
thou hast opened for all who believe in thy Son to 
outlook that mark. May we live altogether in thy 
faith and love, and in that hope which is full of Im- 
mortality. Amen. 

OUR HEAVENLY FATHER, we rejoice in the 
blessed communion of all thy saints, wherein thou 
givest us also to have part. We remember before thee 
all who have departed this life in thy faith and love, 
and especially those most dear to us. We thank thee 
for our present fellowship with them, for our common 
hope, and for the promise of future joy. O let the 
cloud of witnesses, the innumerable company of those 
who have gone before, and entered into rest, be to us 
for an example of godly life, and even now may we 
be refreshed with their joy; that so with patience we 
may run the race that yet remains before us, looking 
unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; and 



PRAYERS FOR SOCIAL SERVICE 177 

obtain an entrance into the everlasting kingdom, the 
glorious assembly of the saints, and with them ever 
worship and adore thy glorious name, world without 
end. Amen. 

FATHER, we thank thee for the faithful souls that 
have blessed the world, whose lives shine as the 
light; holy ones who have feared God, who have 
bravely upheld the right, and generously lived for 
others' good; who have freely chosen suffering rather 
than sin, and felt thy favor to be better than life. O 
may their pure and noble lives animate and quicken 
our hearts. And in our souls may there burn a desire 
like them to become true children of God; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

iPtaperg for Social H>ertuce 

Jfor Jfaitfjful Wctk 

GRACIOUS GOD, remember us, we beseech thee, 
in our work this day. If it be thy will, give unto 
us a prosperous day. May all our work be well done. 
May we turn nothing out half done. May we glorify 
thee by honest good work; for the sake of Him who 
completed his work for us, even Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. —Rev. J. H. Jowett, A. D. iqh. 

J^r a 3&£gf)t Spirit in Woxk 

OLY FATHER, may I remember that this day 
I have to do more than make a living: I have 
to make a life! May I not spoil the one in seeking 
to gain the other! May the way in which I earn my 
daily bread also bring sustenance to my soul! 

OLORD, renew our spirits and draw our hearts 
unto thyself that our work may not be to us a 
burden, but a delight; and give us such a mighty love 
to thee as may sweeten all our obedience. O let us 
not serve thee with the spirit of bondage as slaves, 
but with the cheerfulness and gladness of children, 
delighting ourselves in thee and rejoicing in thy work. 

Amen. — Benjamin Jenks, 1646. 



H 



178 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

O ALMIGHTY GOD and heavenly Father, who by 
thy divine providence hast appointed for each 
one of us our work in life, and hast commanded that 
we should not be slothful in business, but fervent in 
spirit, serving thee, help us always to remember that 
our work is thy appointment, and to do it heartily 
as unto thee. Preserve us from slothfulness, and make 
us to live with loins girded and lamps burning, that 
whensoever our Lord may come, we may be found 
striving earnestly to finish the v/ork that thou hast 
given us to do; through the same Jesus Christ our 

Saviour. Amen. —Dean Goulburn, A. D. 1818. 

jfor tfje Cfjurcf) tn 3ts Community 

O CHRIST, thy church is planted in the heart of 
great and mighty cities where thy children dwell 
in multitudes. The need of these cities taxes the 
power of human organization and goes beyond the 
reach of unawakened love. Thy church has vast re- 
sources for the healing of these multitudes, for the 
awakening of citizens, for strengthening the hands 
of those who would transform their communities 
into cities of the living God. But we, the people of 
thy church, are not aroused. We content ourselves 
too often with conventional and inadequate service. 
We do not give ourselves with passion to the move- 
ments of democracy. We have not as yet opened our 
hearts with generous love to our brothers from other 
lands who have thronged to our shores. The menace 
of disease, the wretchedness of poverty, the anguish 
of unemployment, the cry of neglected children, the 
shame of inefficient government trouble us, but we 
do not rend our hearts. Arouse thy people, O Lord. 
Cause the trumpet to be sounded to thy church. Say 
to her again, Lift up thy voice. Give us vision, and 
strengthen us that we may hearten those who are 
battling for the life of the people. Send us into our 
communities as living forces of faith and courage 
and cooperation. Keep before us the vision of a re- 
deemed society in which Christ shall reveal himself 
in the devoted lives of his followers. We ask it in 
his name. Amen. —Worth M. Tippy. 



PRAYERS FOR SOCIAL SERVICE 179 

3 General Sntercesteion 

OGOD, at whose word man goeth forth unto his 
work and to his labor until the evening, be merci- 
ful to all whose duties are difficult or burdensome, 
and comfort them concerning their toil. Shield from 
bodily accident and harm the workmen at their work. 
Protect the efforts of sober and honest industry, and 
suffer not the hire of the laborers to be kept back 
by fraud. Incline the hearts of employers and of 
those whom they employ to mutual forbearance, fair- 
ness, and good will. Give the spirit of governance 
and of a sound mind to all in places of authority. 
Bless all those who labor in works of mercy and 
schools of good learning. Care for all aged persons, 
and all little children, the sick and the afflicted, and 
those who travel by land or by sea. Remember all 
who by reason of weakness are overtasked, or because 
of poverty are forgotten. Let the sorrowful sighing 
of the prisoners come before thee, and according to 
the greatness of thy power preserve thou those that 
are appointed to die. Give ear unto our prayer, O 
merciful and gracious Father, for the love of thy 
dear Son our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. 

jfor Snternattonai Jirotfjerfjooti 

OTHOU who hast made of one blood all nations 
of men, help us to see the largeness and wisdom 
of thy ways. Thou dost love all men and dost yearn 
to bring them into the fullness of thine own rich life. 
They are all enfolded in thy plans. While we glory 
in the Christ whom thou hast given to us, preserve 
us, heavenly Father, from spiritual arrogance and 
race pride. May our eyes not be dim to the goodness 
and truth which thou hast revealed to others. Make 
us more like Christ who rejoiced in the faith of the 
Roman centurion and praised the noble deeds of the 
Good Samaritan. Open our eyes, O Lord, to the mys- 
tery revealed in Christ, and now proclaimed afresh 
in the contact of the races ; the mystery that in thy 
kingdom Gentiles are fellow heirs with the Jews, 
heathen nations with the Christian. .May the day 



180 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

soon come when race pride and prejudice shall vanish 
from the earth and universal good-will prevail. For- 
give, O Lord, our narrowness, our selfishness, our 
pride, and lead us into the fullness of thine own large 
heart and infinite life. Make us in truth thy children; 
through Christ our Lord. Amen. —Sidney L. Guiick. 

3fox Cfjtlbren ftrijo Waxk 

OTHOU who through the childhood of thy Son, 
our Saviour, hast taught us the sanctity of child 
life, we pray unto thee for the children who work. 
By precept and example thou hast taught us the 
dignity of labor and the holiness of rest; suffer us 
not to profane the Sabbath of childhood, that thou 
hast instituted for man's development, by imposing 
burdens on the shoulders of children which they were 
not intended to bear, and by making old their faces 
before their years. As thou hast, by thy Holy Son, 
set before us a little child as the type of the inheritor 
of the kingdom of heaven, deliver us from the awful 
guilt of those who, in placing stumbling-blocks be- 
fore thy little ones, hang millstones about their own 
necks. Forgive our own and our nation's sin against 
the children, and grant that from henceforth we may 
bear uncomplainingly our own burdens, and never, for 
greed of gain or weariness of life, shift them to 
shoulders younger and weaker than our own. And 
this we ask in the name and for the sake of thy Holy 
Child, Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen. —Mornay Williams. 

jfor domett tofjo tKotl 

OGOD, we pray thee for our sisters who are leav- 
ing the ancient shelter of the home to earn their 
wage in the factory and the store, amid the press of 
modern life. Save them from the strain of unremit- 
ting toil that would unfit them for the holy duties 
of home and motherhood which the future may lay 
upon them. Give them grace to cherish under the 
new surroundings the old sweetness and gentleness 
of womanhood and in the rough mingling of life to 
keep their hearts pure and their lives untarnished. 



PRAYERS FOR SOCIAL SERVICE 181 

Save them from the terrors of utter want. Teach 
them to stand loyally by their sisters, that by united 
action they may better their common lot. If it must 
be so that our women toil like men, help us still to 
reverence in them the mothers of the future. But 
make us determined to shield them from unequal 
burdens, that the women of our nation be not drained 
of strength and hope for the enrichment of a few, 
lest our homes grow poor in the wifely sweetness 
and motherly love which have been the saving 
strength and glory of our country. To such as yearn 
for the love and sovereign freedom of their own 
homes grant in due time the fulfillment of their sweet 
desires. By Mary, the beloved, who bore the world's 
redemption in her bosom; by the memory of our own 
dear mothers who kissed our souls awake; by the 
little daughters who must soon go out into that world 
which we are now fashioning for others, we beseech 
thee that we may deal aright by all women. 

— Walter Rauschenbusch. 

jfor git ©octors; anb Curses 

OLORD JESUS CHRIST, who hast power of life 
and death, of health and of sickness, give power, 
wisdom, and gentleness to all thy ministering serv- 
ants, all physicians and surgeons, nurses and watchers 
by the sick, that, always bearing thy presence with 
them, they may not only heal but bless, and shine as 
lamps of hope in the darkest hours of distress and 
fear; who with the Father and the Holy Ghost livest 
and reignest ever one God, world without end. Amen. 

— Church Missionary Society, A. D. 1799. 

OMOST merciful and loving Jesus, who earnest 
into the world to teach us the glory of self- 
sacrifice and service, grant to all those who are called 
to the sacred office of nursing and caring for the sick, 
that they may always remember that they are fellow- 
workers with thee. Give to them such patience, gen- 
tleness, tact, and love, that they may by the beauty 
of their lives win many sick and dying souls to thee, 



182 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

who livest and reignest with the Father and the Holy 
Ghost now and ever. Amen. 

W$t draper of tfie immigrant 

OGOD, the Father of us humble folk, we need thy 
care. We are far from home, we are strangers 
and there is none to help us. Our women and children 
are weary with waiting; they crave a home and a 
place to rest. But thou, our God, hast quickened in 
our hearts this hope, this eager yearning for a better 
land, for fairer pay for the labor of our hands, for 
freedom, and for life. Sustain us. Speak to us, we 
beseech thee, through human lips that voice thy sym- 
pathy and loving care. Send us friends who shall 
surround us with thy protecting arm. Be tender 
toward those whom we have left behind, our loved 
ones too old to risk the unknown; the excluded, un- 
fitted by adversity to endure the test. So hearten us 
that with cheerful mien we may give our best to the 
land of our adoption. And through all the trials and 
uncertainties of our new life, may we not lose our 
religious heritage, but endure patiently, and strive 
manfully, in the thought of Him who suffered and died 
that we might live. Amen. —William P. Shriver. 

QLfyz draper of an American ilegro 

OTHOU FATHER, from whom every family in 
heaven and on earth is named, hear the prayer of 
thy children. Hear thou our confession. Forgive the 
weakness of the flesh, the feebleness of will, the 
neglect of opportunity, the choice of the better rather 
than the best. Accept our gratitude. We thank thee 
for the way in which thou hast led us in these years 
of testing, from our ancestral home to this place of 
our sojourn. Though the way has often been rough, 
we now begin to see more clearly thy hand of love 
over all. Grant our petition. Grant us grace in the 
sight of those into whose hands thou hast delivered 
us. Thou hast made the white man our teacher ; grant 
him wisdom and us patience. We look to him as a 
model; grant him rectitude of example and us dis- 
criminating judgment. Thou hast made us helpers 



PRAYERS FOR SOCIAL SERVICE 183 

with him; grant him the spirit of unerring justice and 
us the spirit of unconquerable hope. We earnestly 
pray that through his generosity of heart under the 
operation of thy Spirit, and through our worth in- 
wrought by thy grace, we may enjoy that fullness of 
economic, civic, social, educational, and spiritual 
opportunity by which we may be enabled to con- 
tribute our full share to the civilization of this land 
and the redemption of our brethren across the sea. 
In the name of Him who was the Son of man as well 
as the Son of God. Amen. — h. h. Proctor. 

Jfor dfarmer* 

ALMIGHTY GOD, who hast blessed the earth that 
it should be fruitful and bring forth everything 
necessary for the life of man, and hast commanded 
us to work with quietness and eat our own bread; 
bless us in all our labors, and grant us such seasonable 
weather that we may gather in the fruits of the earth, 
and ever rejoice in thy goodness, to the praise of 
thy holy Name ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY GOD, who hast promised in thy mercy 
■"■ that seed-time and harvest, cold and heat, sum- 
mer and winter, day and night, shall not cease, and 
hath blessed the earth that it should be fruitful and 
bring forth everything that is necessary for the life 
of man, bless all farmers in all their labors, and grant 
such seasonable weather that they may gather the 
fruits of the earth and ever rejoice in thy goodness, 
to the praise of thy holy name; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

IJAVE mercy, O Lord, upon all those who labor 
A -*- in the cultivation of the earth, and grant that 
by the power of thy grace their own souls may be 
made fruitful unto all good works; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

^pHOU God of providence, grant to farmers and 
■*- keepers of cattle good seasons; to the fleet and 
fishers fair weather; to tradesmen not to overreach 



1 84 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

one another; to mechanics to pursue their business 
lawfully, even down to the humblest workman, even 
down to the poor; for Christ's sake. Amen. 

—Bishop Lancelot Andrewes, A. D. 1555' 

Jfor foetal STustice 

TF I have withheld the poor from their desire, or 
-*■ have caused the eyes of the widow to fail; or have 
eaten my morsel myself alone, and the fatherless hath 
not eaten thereof; (for from my youth he was brought 
up with me, as with a father, and I have guided her 
from my mother's womb;) if I have seen any perish 
for want of clothing, or any poor without covering; 
if his loins have not blessed me, and if he were not 
warmed with the fleece of my sheep; if T have lifted 
up my hand against the fatherless, when I saw my 
help in the gate: then let mine arm fall from my 
shoulder blade, and mine arm be broken from the 
bone. — Job 31. 16-22. 

Jfor STustice anb JSrotJerfjoub 

O CHRIST, thou hast bidden us pray for the com- 
ing of thy Father's kingdom, in which his right- 
eous will shall be done on earth. We have treasured 
thy words, but we have forgotten their meaning, and 
thy great hope has grown dim in thy church. We 
bless thee for the inspired souls of all ages who saw 
afar the shining city of God, and by faith left the 
profit of the present to follow their vision. We re- 
joice that to-day the hope of these lonely hearts is 
becoming the clear faith of millions. Help us, O 
Lord, in the courage of faith to seize what has now 
come so near, that the glad day of God may dawn at 
last. As we have mastered Nature that we might gain 
wealth, help us now to master the social relations of 
mankind that we may gain justice and a world of 
brothers. For what shall it profit our nation if it 
gain numbers and riches, and lose the sense of the 
living God and the joy of human brotherhood? Make 
us determined to live by truth and not by lies, to 



PRAYERS FOR SOCIAL SERVICE 185 

found our common life on the eternal foundations of 
righteousness and love, and no longer to prop the 
tottering house of wrong by legalized cruelty and 
force. Help us to make the welfare of all the su- 
preme law of our land, that so our commonwealth may 
be built strong and secure on the love of all its citi- 
zens. Cast down the throne of Mammon who ever 
grinds the life of men, and set up thy throne, O Christ, 
for thou didst die that men might live. Show thy 
erring children at last the way to the City of Love, 
and fulfill the longings of the prophets of humanity. 
Our Master, once more we make thy faith our prayer: 
"Thy kingdom come! Thy will be done on earth!" 

— Walter Rauschenbusch. 

jfor tfje emancipation of Workers? 

OGOD, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and 
earth, which do declare thy glory and show forth 
thy handiwork; make us thy faithful messengers and 
ministers, that we may run the way of thy command- 
ments and do the work that thou hast given us to do, 
not with eye-service as men-pleasers, but in singleness 
of heart, as becometh the children of the Highest. 
We pray for the emancipation of workers everywhere 
from the discordant service of Mammon, and for the 
sanctification of labor in every calling and handicraft; 
that so all things may be done in righteousness, in 
truth and in beauty, for thy obedience and for human 
wealth, in humble imitation of him who is the Master- 
Workman of us all, and who sometime was among us 
as one that serveth, thy Son, our Saviour, Jesus Christ. 
Amen. 

Jfor tfje Companion of 3t$w& 

T ORD, help me to show toward my fellow men that 
-*- / kindness which I have so often craved from them. 
May I think of my neighbor not as my rival who 
would undo me, but as my brother who needs me. 
Give me the compassion of Jesus that I may never be 
able to turn coldly from any man who needs me. 
Make me quick to hear the cry of the suffering. Turn 



186 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

my feet toward the house of sorrow. May I know the 
joy of carrying hope to hearts that have long been 
strangers to hope. I remember how lonely I have 
been in sickness: help me to relieve the loneliness 
of the sick. I remember how often I have longed 
for the touch of a friendly hand: help me to relieve 
the heart-hunger of the neglected. For Jesus' sake. 
Amen. 

rlfor £§>octal ^>erbtce 

OLORD, our heavenly Father, who by thy blessed 
Son hast taught us that thou art Love, we beseech 
thee graciously to bless all those who, following his 
steps, give themselves to the service of their fellow 
men. Grant unto them clear vision to perceive those 
things which in our social order are amiss; give them 
true judgment, courage, and perseverance to help 
those to right that suffer wrong; and endue them with 
unfailing love to minister to the poor, the suffering, 
and the friendless. Make us sensible of our union 
one with another as thy children, that we may strive 
wisely to order all things among -us according to thy 
will; for the sake of him who laid down his life for 
us, thy Son, our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen. 

Jfor temperance anb $ro&t&ttion 

Jfor temperance 

MOST MERCIFUL FATHER, who desirest not the 
death of a sinner, but, rather, that he should turn 
from his wicked ways and live, have pity, we beseech 
thee, upon all miserable captives who are in bondage 
to drunkenness. Deliver them from the tyranny of that 
blind and wicked spirit, whereby their lives are con- 
fused and defiled, and they are driven into all manner 
of shameful deeds. Strengthen them to resist their 
besetting sin, and lead them into the liberty and purity 
of the sons of God. Direct and bless thy servants 
who fight against the cruel dominion of strong drink, 
according to the precepts of thy holy religion; and 
grant that all who minister to intemperance, and all 



TEMPERANCE AND PROHIBITION 187 

who are entangled in its net, may be converted to a 
godly, righteous, and sober life; through the grace 
of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. 

3fov fhrofututum 

OTHOU God of nations and of men, women, and 
children, we look to thee to crown with victory 
the self-sacrificing and heroic work of the temperance 
forces of these United States. This hundred years 
of struggle on behalf of our poisoned brothers, tor- 
tured sisters, and the little ones, deserves to win. This 
is not our cause but thine. These tempted men and 
blighted women are thy children; Jesus has died for 
every one of them. These men and women who have 
put their time, money, earthly prospects, reputation, 
and martyr blood into this century-long campaign, 
were but following thy Son, our beloved Saviour, into 
the world's regeneration; they have denied themselves 
and taken up their cross daily, that they might fill 
up on their part all that was lacking in the suffering 
of Christ, to win this one epoch for righteousness, 
while the blood of the slaughtered millions has cried 
from the ground unto thee. May the enemies of 
righteousness be put to shame and the leaders of this 
redeeming movement be clothed with thy Spirit's 
power and leadership. Bless the churches organized 
and praying; may their resolutions be backed with 
noble living, consistent voting, and heroic doings ; may 
every press inform, every platform inspire, every 
family altar sanctify the gifts of their people, and 
every pulpit blaze with a twentieth-century prophet's 
message. May thy people stand together; make 
prohibition prevail; elect to office those who can 
stand fire and act the part of thy men, redeem our flag 
from its stain, clear our hills and valleys of breweries 
and saloons, our towns and cities from drunkards and 
tipplers, our homes and hovels from drunkards' wives 
and offspring, and plant a purified church, an Ameri- 
can school, and a Christian home where evil has held 
high carnival so long. These victories we ask in His 
name, who told us it were better that a millstone be 
hanged about our neck and we drowned in the midst 



i88 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 



mid 



of the sea, than that one o£ the least o£ these should 
be made to stumble. And for permitting the millions 
of little ones to perish, and for all our bloody revenue, 
"thy mercy on thy people, Lord." Amen. 

Dr. Clarence True Wilson, 1917 

Jfor ©ux Nation anfe &uierg 

ALMIGHTY GOD, King of kings, and Lord of' 
-"■ lords, from whom proceed all power and dominion 
in heaven and earth, most heartily we beseech thee 
to look with favor upon thy servants, the President 
of the United States, the governor of this State, and 
all others in authority. Imbue them with the spirit 
of wisdom, goodness, and truth; and so rule their 
hearts, and bless their endeavors, that law and order, 
justice and peace may everywhere prevail. Preserve 
us from public calamities, from pestilence and 
famine; from war, privy conspiracy, and rebellion, 
but especially from national sins and corruption. 
Make us strong and great in the fear of God, and in 
the love of righteousness, so that being blessed of 
thee, we may become a blessing to all nations, to the 
praise of the glory of thy grace, through Jesus Christ. 
Amen. 

OGOD, our refuge and strength, who orderest all 
things in heaven and earth; look down with thy 
mercy upon us as a nation. Remember not our 
iniquities, nor the iniquities of our forefathers, nei- 
ther take thou vengeance of our sins. Pour out upon 
us, and on all the people of this* land, the spirit of 
grace and supplication, and join us together in piety, 
loyalty, and brotherly love. Direct the counsels and 
strengthen the hands of all in authority for the re- 
pression of crime and outrage, the maintenance of 
order and law, and of public peace and safety; so that, 
leading quiet lives in all godliness and honesty, we 
may be thy people, and thou mayest vouchsafe to be 
our God, and that we may bless and glorify thee, our 
Defender and Deliverer; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 



FOR OUR NATION AND RULERS 189 

WE humbly thank thee, Almighty God, for the 
many blessings which thou hast given to our 
country, and add this, O Lord, to thy other mercies, 
that we may be enabled to use them better to thy 
service. O take from among us all contempt of thy 
Word and commandments. Break down all the bar- 
riers of selfishness and ignorance which keep men 
from thee. Convince the impenitent of the misery 
of sin, and comfort the broken-hearted with the assur- 
ance of thy love. Teach us all to be evangelists, not 
in word only, but in everything which we do. This 
we ask in the name and for the sake of Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

Jfor GTfjose in Uutfjorirp 

GOD of all power and might, the Maker and Ruler 
of men; we commend our nation to the guidance 
of thy wisdom, to the keeping of thy love. May the 
rulers whom thy people choose to serve them, serve 
thee in honesty of purpose and uprightness of life. 
May they never forget their answerableness to the 
people whom they serve and to that people's God. 
Deliver them from the love of power and from mo- 
tives of personal gain; from considerations of men 
or money in place of the demands of truth and jus- 
tice; and from losing patriotism in partisanship. 
Bless them in their ministry with an ever larger 
vision of truth, an ever deeper sense of the demands 
of righteousness; that through their faithfulness the 
life of our people may be guided by wise policies, 
and lifted to higher ideals and nobler achievements; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

RAISE up, O God, politicians who will fear thee 
and thee alone, and will thy will, and work thy 
work, fearless and faithful unto death in the name 
of Jesus Christ. Amen. 

jfor ©euberance from National &>ing 

LORD GOD ALMIGHTY, defend our land, we 
beseech thee, from the secret power and the open 
shame of great national sins. From all dishonesty 



igo SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

and civic corruption; from all vainglory and selfish 
luxury, from all cruelty and the spirit of violence, 
from covetousness which is idolatry, from impurity 
which defiles the temple of the Holy Spirit, and from 
intemperance, which is the mother of many crimes 
and sorrows; good Lord, deliver and save us and our 
children, and our children's children, in the land 
which thou hast blessed with the light of pure reli- 
gion; through Jesus Christ, . our only Saviour and 
King. Amen. 

jfor a pilestetng on tfje Jfamtlies; of tfje Hanb 

ALMIGHTY GOD, our heavenly Father, who settest 
the solitary in families, we commend to thy 
continual care the homes in which thy people dwell. 
Put far from them, we beseech thee, every root of 
bitterness, the desire of vainglory, and the pride of 
life. Fill them with faith, virtue, knowledge, tem- 
perance, patience, godliness. Knit together in con- 
stant affection those who, in holy wedlock, have been 
made one flesh; turn the heart of the fathers to the 
children, and the heart of the children to the fathers; 
and so kindle charity among us all, that we be ever- 
more kindly affectioned with brotherly love; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

jfor Courts; of Hfus'ttce 

ALMIGHTY GOD, who sittest in the throne judg- 
ing right, we humbly beseech thee to bless the 
courts of justice and the magistrates in all this land; 
and give unto them the spirit of wisdom and under- 
standing that they may discern the truth, and im- 
partially administer the law in the fear of thee alone; 
through him who shall come to be our judge, thy Son, 
our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen. 

jHemorial Bapg 

O ALMIGHTY GOD, God of the spirits of all 
flesh, we give thee thanks for all those who have 
laid down their lives for home and country; and we 
commend them to thy Fatherly care and protection, 



FOR OUR NATION AND RULERS 191 

beseeching thee that we, with them, may have our 
portion in the life of the world to come; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Cfje jfourtfj of 3Tulj» 

WE will sing unto thee, O Lord. Thou art our 
strength and song, and thou hast become our 
salvation. Thou art our fathers' God, and we will 
exalt thee. We recall with grateful hearts the work 
thou didst begin and carry forward for our fathers. 
They came from beyond the seas. They were planted 
in the mountain of thine inheritance. Thou over- 
earnest their enemies. Thou didst put strength and 
courage and hope in their hearts. They wrought dili- 
gently and fought bravely, and triumphed gloriously. 
And we their children do give thee praise on this our 
nation's natal day. Forgive our sins and save us from 
our enemies — the enemies of false ambition, unholy 
lust, pride, unbelief, and irreligion. May this, O 
Lord, be the sanctuary which thou hast established, 
and do thou rule over our rulers and our people, and 
make this land thy land forever — the land of freedom 
and righteousness. Through Jesus Christ our Re- 
deemer. Amen. 

ALMIGHTY GOD, who on this day didst direct 
and inspire the hearts of our fathers to set forth 
the independence of these United States, we give all 
glory and praise to thee, the Author of our liberty, 
and the sure Defense of our safety. We pray that 
by thy grace we may be enabled to build wisely upon 
these foundations of freedom and of peace: that we 
may hold our liberties in due subjection to thy law, 
and in all things seek that righteousness which ex- 
alteth a nation. Kindle in our hearts the pure flame 
of sacrifice to our country's needs; and grant that the 
fires of our patriotism may shine as beacon lights 
upon thy holy hills, O God, and may point the ways 
of men toward that universal brotherhood, when the 
nations of the world shall be one in Jesus Christ our 
Lord. 



192 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 






3fa Kimt of Calamity 

OGOD, merciful and compassionate, who art ever 
ready to hear the prayers of those who put their 
trust in thee, graciously hearken to us who call upon 
thee, and grant us thy help in this our need; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

ALMIGHTY GOD, who art a very present help in 
■**■ time of trouble; let not the heart of thy people 
fail when fear cometh, but do thou sustain and com- 
fort them until these calamities be overpast: and 
since thou knowest the cause and reason why this 
grievous disaster [of fire, flood, earthquake, ship- 
wreck, or other trouble] hath fallen upon men, so do 
thou heal the hurt and wounded, console the bereaved 
and afflicted, protect the innocent and helpless, and 
deliver any who are still in peril, for thy great 
mercy's sake. Amen. 

Buring an €ptfcremic 

O ALMIGHTY GOD, we implore thy help in this 
our great need. Pardon us for all the careless- 
ness and neglect of thy laws which may have brought 
upon us this terrible disease, and inspire us to amend 
our ways. Guide all who are studying how to prevent* 
as well as to cure, such sickness. Quicken to repent- 
ance those who, by willful indifference or selfishness, 
are responsible for the incursion of illness, and, if it 
be thy good will, assuage the virulence of this present 
calamity, and grant that we may learn by it to seek 
more diligently to do thy bidding, and to live in 
humble dependence upon thee who art our Father, for 
Jesus Christ's sake. Amen. 

3fa Him of Wax 

OLORD GOD ALMIGHTY, who from thy throne 
dost behold all the dwellers upon earth, look 
down with pity upon those on whom have fallen the 
miseries of war. Have compassion on the wounded 
and dying; comfort the broken-hearted; assuage the 
madness of the nations; make war to cease; give 
peace in our time, O Lord, we ask it in the name 



. 



IN TIME OF WAR 193 

of Him who is the Prince of Peace, even thy Son 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. —Adapted. 

draper jfor "Vitttsxv 

ALMIGHTY and all-holy God, who hast granted 
to our country freedom and established our na- 
tion in righteousness by the peopled will, we humbly 
beseech thee to iDless her - in the defense of that 
liberty for herself and for her sister-nations. Keep 
thy servant, the President of these United States, and 
all chosen leaders under thy governance and protec- 
tion. Purify and unite the hearts of all our people 
in war against war. Bless and preserve the men 
who go forth to fight in the good cause, and the men 
and women at home who work for the same end. Save 
us from all dissension, privy conspiracy, and treason. 
Uphold and strengthen the nations by whose side we 
have come to stand in this fiery trial. Have mercy 
on our enemies and turn their hearts to see the evil 
of their way and abandon the folly of their iniquity. 
O, God of justice and of love, we submit our cause 
to thee. Give victory to the right. Have compas- 
sion on the sufferings of mankind. Help us to hasten 
the day when the peoples of the world shall dwell 
secure in freedom and a true and durable peace. This 
we beg in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Dr. Henry van Dyke, 1917* 

jfor tfie &rmp 

OLORD GOD OF HOSTS, stretch forth, we pray 
thee, thine almighty arm to strengthen and pro- 
tect the soldiers, of our country; support them in the 
day of battle, and in the time of peace keep them 
safe from all evil; endue them with courage and 
loyalty, and grant that in all things they may serve 
without reproach; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

GRANT that our soldiers may be brave in battle, 
high-hearted in hardships, dauntless in defeat, 
gentle in victory. Remember those who have trained 
themselves in peace to help their country in war, and 
give them skill and courage, endurance and self-con- 



194 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 



the 
/ord. 



trol, in the work now set them. We ask it in 
name and for the sake of Christ Jesus our Lord 
Amen. 

jfor tije Jiabp 

O ETERNAL LORD GOD, who alone spreadest 
out the heavens, and rulest the raging of the sea; 
vouchsafe to take into thy almighty and most gra- 
cious protection our country's navy, and all who serve 
therein. Preserve them from the dangers of the sea, 
and from the violence of the enemy, that they may 
be a safeguard unto the United States of America, 
and a security for such as pass on the seas upon their 
lawful occasions; that the inhabitants of our land 
may in peace and quietness serve thee our God; to 
the glory of thy name, through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

23 £>oliner'fi; draper 

F ORD, thou seest how I am a soldier for my coun- 
• L-/ try and for thee. It is thy battle I am in. I feel 
the thrill of it. Thou art thyself a Soldier and a Cap- 
tain, the Captain of Salvation. I am fighting for the 
salvation of the world. Thou wilt give me help, that 
I know right well. I, a soldier, come to thee, The 
Soldier, praying for help to be the soldier I ought to 
be. Help me, my Captain, to be valiant, chaste, con- 
siderate, humane, manly, a son not ashamed when he 
meets his mother and his father when the battle is 
done, and a soldier not ashamed to meet his God. 
Bless my dear native land, and help me to fight with 
valor for its safety, its health, its perpetuity; and if I 
die fighting, bring me, by thy grace, to thyself in 
heaven, I pray in Christ, my Saviour, Amen! 

— Bishop William A. Quayle, 1917. 

jfor CfjaplatnS 1 

TDEMEMBER, O Lord, all whom thou hast called 
-"■ to minister to the souls of those engaged in war- 
fare. Give to them great gifts and holiness, that with 
wisdom and charity, diligence and zeal, they may open 

1 For Prayers for Nurses, see page 174. 



FOR THANKSGIVING DAY 195 

the eyes of the blind, comfort those who suffer, and 
speak peace to the dying. Grant them thy grace to 
strengthen the weak, and to confirm the strong, that 
in all their ministrations, in all their life and con- 
versation, they may shepherd the souls committed to 
their care, and advance the honor of our Saviour and 
his kingdom, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

— Bishop Taylor Smith, Nineteenth Century* 

Jfor ^fjanfeggtfamg Bap 

^fjan&sJgtbing anb $rai£e 

THOU hast given so much to us, give one thing 
more, a grateful heart; for Christ's sake. Amen. 

— George Herbert, A. D. 1593. 

TX7E thank thee, O Lord our Lord, for our being, 
* * our life, our gift of reason; for our nurture, 
our preservation and guidance; for our education, 
civil rights, and religious privileges; for thy gifts 
of grace, of nature, of this world; for our redemption, 
regeneration, and instruction in the Christian faith; 
for our calling, recalling, and our manifold renewed 
recallings for thy forbearance and long-suffering. Thy 
prolonged forbearance many a time and many a year. 
For all the benefits we have received, and all the 
undertakings wherein we have prospered; for any 
good we may have done; for the use of the blessing 
of this life; for thy promise, and our hope of the en- 
joyment of good things to come; for good and honest 
parents, gentle teachers, benefactors ever to be re- 
membered, congenial companions, intelligent hearers, 
sincere friends, faithful servants; for all who have 
profited us by their writings, sermons, conversations, 
prayers, examples, reproofs, injuries. For all these, 
and also for all other mercies, known and unknown, 
open and secret, remembered by us or now forgot- 
ten, kindnesses received by us willingly or even 
against our will. We praise thee, we bless thee, we 
thank thee, and will praise and bless and thank thee 
all the days of our life; through Jesus Christ our 

Lord. Amen. — Bishop Lancelot Andrewes, A. D. 1555- 



ig6 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 






©arbest Cfjanfcsgibmg 

O ALMIGHTY GOD and heavenly Father, -we 
glorify thee that thou hast again fulfilled to us 
thy gracious promise, that while the earth remaineth, 
seed-time and harvest shall not fail. We bless thee 
for the kindly fruits of the earth, which thou hast 
given to our use. Teach us, we beseech thee, to re- 
member that it is not by bread alone that man doth 
live, and grant us evermore to feed on Him who is 
the true Bread from heaven, even Jesus Christ our 
Lord, to whom with thee, and the Holy Ghost, be all 
honor and glory, world without end. Amen. 

— Prayer Book of the Church of Ireland, A. D, 1877. 

O ALMIGHTY and everlasting God, who hast 
blessed the labors of the husbandman, and given 
unto us the fruits of the earth in their season, grant 
us grace to use the same to thy glory, to the relief 
of those that are needy, and to our own comfort; 
through Jesus Christ, who is the living Bread whfch 
cometh down from heaven and giveth life unto the 
world; to whom, with thee and the Holy Spirit, be all 
honor and glory, now and forever. Amen. 

®fjan&ggtiJtitg after ^arbest 

WE give thee hearty thanks, most merciful Father, 
for all thy goodness, and especially for this 
thy bounty again bestowed upon us, who, through 
thy providence and tender mercy toward us, have 
now reaped the fruits of the earth in due season, and 
gathered them into our garners. Continue, we be- 
seech thee, thy lovingkindness toward us, that year 
by year our land may yield her increase, filling our 
hearts with food and gladness, to the comfort of thy 
people and the glory of thy holy name ; and so dis- 
pose us by thy special grace, that we thy servants 
may never sow to the flesh alone, lest of the flesh we 
reap corruption, but may sow to the Spirit, and of 
the Spirit reap life everlasting; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 



©xhtv ot public Wot^ip 

fflttbotii&t Cptecopal Cfjurcf) 

Let all services begin exactly at the time appointed, 
and let the people kneel in silent prayer on entering 
the sanctuary. 

I. [Voluntary, instrumental or vocal.] 1 

II. Singing from the Methodist Hymnal, the Peo- 
ple standing. 

III. [The Apostles' Creed, recited by all, standing. 
I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven 

and earth: 

And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord; who was con- 
ceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suf- 
fered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried; 
the third day he rose from the dead; he ascended into 
heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father 
Almighty; from thence he shall come to judge the quick 
and the dead. 

I believe in the Holy Ghost; the holy catholic 1 Church, 
the communion of saints; the forgivenes of sins; the resur- 
rection of the body; and the life everlasting. Amen.] 

IV. Prayer, concluding with the Lord's Prayer, re- 
peated audibly by all, both Minister and People kneel- 
ing. 

V. [Anthem, or Voluntary.] 

VI. Lesson from the Old Testament, which may 
be read responsively, the People standing. 

VII. [The Gloria Patri: 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy 
Ghost, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, 
world without end. Amen.] 



1 Parts inclosed in brackets may be used or omitted. 

2 The one universal Church of Christ. 

197 



198 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 



VIII. Lesson from the New Testament. 

IX. Notices, followed by Collection; during or 

Ftf*r whirli an OfFVrtnri/ mav h*» rf*-nAt*-re*A 



after which an Offertory may be rendered. 

X. Singing from the Methodist Hymnal, the People 
standing. 

XI. The Sermon. 

XII. Prayer, the People kneeling. 

XIII. Singing from the Methodist Hymnal, the 
People standing. 

XIV. Doxology and the Apostolic Benediction. 
(2 Cor. 13. 14.) 

§ 2. At the service during which the Sacraments are 
administered any of the items of the preceding order 
may be omitted except singing, prayer, and the apos- 
tolic benediction. 

§ 3. Let the people be earnestly exhorted to take 
part in the public worship of God; first, by singing; 
second, by prayer, in the scriptural attitude of kneel- 
ing, and by the repetition of the Lord's Prayer. 






W$t ©t&tt of Wwc&W— Wt&ltp ^ttttbap g>erbice 

EDITION OF I784 

i. Scripture Sentence. 

2. Invitation to Prayer: "Dearly beloved brethren," — 

3. General Confession. All kneeling. 

4. Prayer for Absolution. 

5. The Lord's Prayer, and Versicles : "O Lord, open thou," 

etc. 

6. Gloria Patri, and Alleluia : "Praise ye," etc. 

7. The Psalm for the Day, and the Gloria Patri. 

8. The First Lesson. Old Testament. 

9. Morning, Te Deum. Evening, Psalm 98, Gloria Patri. 

10. The Second Lesson. New Testament. 

11. Morning, The Hundredth Psalm, and the Gloria Patri. 

Evening, Psalm 67, Gloria Patri. 

12. The Apostles' Creed. Standing. 

13. The Salutation : "The Lord be with you," etc. ; and Suf- 

frages : "Lord, have mercy," etc. 

14. .Three Collects : Of the Day; For Peace; and For Grace 

to Live Well, or For Aid against all Perils. 

15. Prayers for Supreme Rulers and for All Conditions 

of Men. 

16. A General Thanksgiving. 

17. Prayer of St. Chrysostom. 

18. Benediction : "The Grace of our Lord." 2 Cor. 13. 14. 



199 



THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE 
ORIGINAL PREFACE 



T BELIEVE there is no Liturgy in the World, either in 
ancient or modern language, which breathes more of a 
solid, Scriptural, rational Piety than the Common Prayer 
of the Church of England. And though the main of it 
was compiled considerably more than two hundred years 
ago, yet is the language of it not only pure, but strong and 
elegant in the highest degree. 

Little alteration is made in the following edition of it 
(which I recommend to our Societies in America), ex- 
cept in the following instances : 

i. Most of the holy days (so called) are omitted, as at 
present answering no valuable end. 

2. The Service of the Lord's Day, the length of which 
has been often complained of, is considerably shortened. 

3. Some sentences in the offices of Baptism, and for -the 
Burial of the Dead, are omitted; and, 

4. Many Psalms left out, and many parts of the others, 
as being highly improper for the mouths of a Christian 
Congregation. John Wesley. 

Bristol, Sept. 9, 1784. 



200 



WESLEY'S TABLE OF 

PROPER LESSONS ON SUNDAYS 



TO BE READ AT MORNING AND EVENING PRAYER 
THROUGHOUT THE YEAR 



In Advent 
The First 



After Christmas 
The First 



13 
15 



Before Easter 

Lesson 

Lesson- 



Easter Day 
Lesson- 
Lesson- 



After Easter 
The First 



3 

4 

5 

After Ascension Day 
Whitsunday 

1 Lesson- 

2 Lesson- 



Trinity Sunday 

Lesson — 

Lesson- 



After Trinity Sunday 
The First 



Isaiah ■ 



Genesis 



-19 to v 



Exodus — 
Matthew- 



Exodus - 
Romans- 



Numbers- 



16 



23 and 24 

Deuteronomy ' 4 

6 



Acts- 



-16 to v. 18 
10 v. 34 



Genesis — 
Matthew- 



Joshua 

Judges 

1 Samuel- 



2 Samuel- 
1 Kings — 



13 



Isaiah ■ 



Genesis - 



24 
26 
32 

38 
43 
46 
53 
56 
58 
64 
66 



18 



37 

42 



-44 and 45 



Exodus 10 

Hebrews 5 to v. 11 



Exodus ■ 
Acts 



Numbers- 



Deuteronomy- 



14 



25 
5 
7 
9 

13 



Isaiah - 
Acts — 



Genesis - 
1 John- 
Joshua— 
Judges- 



-19 to v. 21 



18 
5 



1 Samuel- 



2 Samuel- 
1 Kings — 



23 
5 
3 

13 

17 
19 
24 
17 
19 



SUNDAYS 

After Trinity Sunday 



13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 



23 

24 
25 
26 



2 Kings- 



Jeremiah 



Ezekiel - 



Daniel 

Joel 

Habakkuk • 
Proverbs — 



2 Kings- 



Jeremiah 



Ezekiel - 



Daniel — 

Micah 

Proverbs 



9 
18 
23 
22 
36 
13 
18 
24 
6 
6 



14 
16 
19 



l^p^Let the Second Lesson in the Morning be a Chapter of the Four 
Gospels, and the Acts of the Apostles and the Second Lesson in the Even- 
ing be a Chapter out of the Epistles, in regular Rotation; excepting where 
it is otherwise provided. 

PROPER LESSONS FOR PARTICULAR DAYS 



Nativity of Christ 

1 Lesson — 

2 Lesson 



Good Friday 

1 Lesson — 

2 Lesson 



Isaiah- 
Luke — 



— 9 to v. 8 

-2 to v. 15 



Ascension Day 

1 Lesson 

2 Lesson 



Genesis 22 to v. 20 

John 18 

Deuteronomy 10 

Luke 24 v. 44 



Isaiah — 7 v. 10 to v. 17 
Titus 3 v. 4 to v. 9 



Isaiah 53 

1 Peter 2 

2 Kings 2 

Ephesians 4 to v. 17 



PROPER PSALMS ON CERTAIN DAYS 



Advent Sun- 
day 


Morning 
8, 50 


Evening 
96, 97 


Ascension. . . 


Morning 
8, 15 


Evening 
24, 47 


Christmas 
Day 


19,45, 85 


89 


Whitsunday 


48, 68 


104, 145 


Epiphany . . . 


46, 47, 48 


72, 117, 135 


Trinity Sun- 
day 


29, 33 


93, 97, 150 


Good Friday . 


22, 40 


69 


Transfigura- 
tion 


27, 61, 93 


84, 99, 133 


Easter Even . 


4. 16, 17 


30, 31 


St. Michael 
and All 
Angels .... 


91. 103 


34, 148 


Easter Day . . 


2, 57, in 


113, 114, 118 


All Saints . . . 


1, 15, 146 


112, 121, 149 



202 



EPISTLES AND GOSPELS FOR HOLY WEEK 

Mnndav bpfnrp Faster / For the Epistle, Isa. 63. 1-19. 

Monday before Easter ^ The Gospel> St- Mark ^ I _ ?2# 

Tuesday before Easter 5&&M' ^V?-^. 

Wednesday before Easter { ^ gg^ g^£ 8 i_ 7 , 

Thursday before Easter | ?he Epistle, ^^1,^7-34^ 

Easter Even j gg ggjt gtffSgtt 3 / ^sW 



NUMBERED SELECTIONS 

TO BE READ AT DISCRETION INSTEAD OF THE PSALMS 
FOR THE DAY 



PAGE 

i. Psalms 1, 91 138 

2. Psalms 19 and 119 v. 97 . . . 140 

3. Psalms 23, 65, 107 v. 31 . . . 142 

4. Psalms 32, 130, 121 145 

5. Psalms 51, 42 147 

6. Psalms 66, 107 v. 21 150 

7. Psalms 72, 96 . 152 

8. Psalm 80 ..... .• 154 

9. Psalms 81, 82 156 

10. Psalms 84, 122 158 

11. Psalms 85, 93, 97 159 

12. Psalms 148, 149, 150 162 

13. Job 28 163 

14. From Proverbs 3, 4 165 

15. Proverbs 8 168 

16. From Isaiah 11, 42 170 

17. From Isaiah 35, 40 172 



21. 



23- 



PAGE 

18. Isaiah 52 175 

19. Isaiah 53 177 

20. Isaiah 55 178 

Isaiah 60 180 

From St. Matthew 5 182 

From St. John 14 184 

24. From Romans 8, Revela- 
tion 7 187 

25. From St. John 15, 1 Corin- 

thians 13 189 

26. From 1 John 3, 2 Corin- 

thians 4, Revelation 21. . 192 

27. Revelation 22 194 

28. Children's Service 197 

29. The Sabbath 199 

30. Temperance 203 

31. Ten Commandments and 

Responses 206 



RULES 

TO KNOW WHEN THE MOVABLE FEASTS AND HOLY- 
DAYS BEGIN 



17 ASTER DAY, on which the rest depend, is always the First Sunday 
*— 1 after the Full Moon which happens upon or next after the Twenty- 
first Day of March; and if the Full Moon happen upon a Sunday, Easter 
Day is the Sunday after. 

Advent Sunday is always the nearest Sunday to the Feast of St. Andrew, 
whether before or after. 



Septuagesima 
Sexagesima 
Quinquagesima 
Quadragesima 
Rogation Sunday 
Ascension Day 
Whitsunday 
Trinity Sunday 



Sunday 



Nine Weeks 
Eight Weeks 
Seven Weeks 
Six Weeks 
Five Weeks 
Forty Days 
Seven Weeks 
Eight Weeks 



Before Easter. 



After Easter. 



203 



TABLE OF IMMOVABLE FEASTS IN THE 
CHRISTIAN YEAR 






i. The Circumcision of Christ, Jan. 
i. 

2. The Epiphany, Jan. 6. 

3. The Conversion of St. Paul, Jan. 

25. 

4. The Purification, Feb. 2. 

5. Annunciation to the Virgin, 

March 25. 

6. St. Mark, April 25. 

7. SS. Philip and James, May 1. 

8. St. Barnabas, June 11. 

9. St. John Baptist, June 24. 

10. St. Peter, June 29. 

11. St. James, July 25. 

12. The Transfiguration, Aug. 6. 



13. St. Bartholomew, Aug. 24. 

14. St. Matthew, Sept. 21. 

15. St, Michael and all Angels, Sept. 

29. 

16. St. Luke, Oct. 18. 

17. SS. Simon and Jude, Oct. 28. 

18. All Saints, Nov. 1. 

19. St. Andrews, Nov. 30. 

20. St. Thomas, Dec. 21. 

21. The Nativity of our Lord, Dec. 

25. 

22. St. Stephen, Dec. 26. 

23. St. John Evangelist, Dec. 27. 

24. The Holy Innocents, Dec. 28. 



A TABLE 

SHOWING THE DAYS ON WHICH EASTER WILL PALL FROM 

THE YEAR OF OUR LORD 1891 TO THE YEAR OF 

OUR LORD 1944, BOTH INCLUSIVE 



YEAR OF 






YEAR OF 






YEAR OF 




OUR 


EASTER 


DAY 


OUR 


EASTER DAY 


OUR 


EASTER DAY 


LORD 






LORD 






LORD 




I89I 


March 


29 


1909 


April 


11 


1927 


April 17 


1892 


April 


17 


I9IO 


March 


27 


1928 


8 


1893 


" 


2 


I9II 


April 


16 


1929 


March 31 


1894 


March 


25 


1912 


" 


7 


1930 


April 20 


1895 


April 


14 


1913 


March 


23 


1931 


5 


1896 


" 


5 


1914 


April 


12 


1932 


March 27 


1897 


" 


18 


1915 


" 


4 


1933 


April 16 


1898 


" 


10 


I9l6 


" 


23 


1934 


1 


1899 


" 


2 


1917 


" 


8 


1935 


" 21 


1900 


" 


15 


I9I8 


March 


31 


1936 


12 


1901 


" 


7 


1919 


April 


20 


1937 


March 28 


1902 


March 


30 


1920 


" 


4 


1938 


April 17 


1903 


April 


12 


1921 


March 


27 


1939 


9 


1904 


" 


3 


1922 


April 


16 


1940 


March 24 


1905 


" 


23 


1923 


" 


1 


1941 


April 13 


1906 


" 


15 


1924 


" 


20 


1942 


5 


1907 


March 


31 


1925 


" 


12 


1943 


25 


1908 


April 


19 


1926 


'* 


4 


1944 


9 



204 



THE SUNDAY SERVICE 



THE ORDER FOR 
Jfflormng anb Cfaentng draper 

f /4£ £/i£ beginning of Morning and Evening Prayer, the Minister 
shall read with a loud Voice some one or more of these Sentences 
of the Scriptures that follow. And then he shall say that which 
is written after the said Sentences. 

Tf On any day when the Holy Communion is immediately to follow, 
the Minister may, at his discretion, pass at once from the Sentences 
to the Lord's Prayer, first pronouncing, The Lord be with you. 
Answer. And with thy spirit. Minister. Let us pray. 

T[ Note, That a Processional Hymn may be sung as the Minister and 
Choir enter the Church, the Congregation rising and joining in 
the same. When it is more convenient this Hymn may be an- 
nounced and sung before the reading of the Scripture Sentences. 

T^7HEN the wicked man turneth away from his wicked- 
ness that he hath committed, and doeth that which 
is lawful and right, he shall save his soul alive. (Ezek. 
18. 27.) 

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and 
a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise. (Psalm 
5i. 17.) 

To the Lord our God belong mercies and forgivenesses, 
though we have rebelled against him; neither have we 
obeyed the voice of the Lord our God, to walk in his laws 
which he set before us. (Dan. 9. 9, 10.) 

I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, 
Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, and 
am no more worthy to be called thy son. (St. Luke 15. 
18, 19.) 

Enter not into judgment with thy servant, O Lord; for 
in thy sight shall no man living be justified. (Psalm 143. 2.) 

If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and 
the truth is not in us; but if we confess our sins, God is 
faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us 
from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1. 8, 9.) 

The Lord is in his holy temple: let all the earth keep 
silence before him. (Hab. 2. 20.) 

205 



206 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the 
house of the Lord. (Psalm 122. 1.) 

Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my 
heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength and 
my redeemer. (Psalm 19. 14.) 

Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and 
from the Lord Jesus Christ. (Phil. 1. 2.) 
A , Repent ye: for the Kingdom of Heaven 

Advent. is at p hand> (St . Matt< 3. 2 .) 

Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the 
desert a highway for our God. (Isa. 40. 3.) 

Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall 
ri . be to all people. For unto you is born this 

Christmas. day - n the city of Dav i d a Saviour, which 

is Christ the Lord. (St. Luke 2. 10, 11.) 

From the rising of the sun even unto the going down of 
F . , the same my Name shall be great among 

npipsiany. ^ Q ent ij es . and [ n ev ery place incense 

shall be offered unto my Name, and a pure offering: for my 
Name shall be great among the heathen, saith the Lord of 
hosts. (Mai. 1. 11.) 

Awake, awake; put on thy strength, O Zion; put on thy 
beautiful garments, O Jerusalem. (Isa. 52. 1.) 

Is it nothing to you, all ye that pass by? behold, and see 
A a v id ^ there be any sorrow like unto my sorrow 

00 r ay ' which is done unto me, wherewith the Lord 

hath afflicted me. (Lam. 1. 12.) 

7-. , He is risen. The Lord is risen indeed. 

taster. (St Mark l6> 6; St> Luke 24> 34 ) 

This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will re- 
joice and be glad in it. (Psalm 118. 24.) 

Seeing that we have a great High Priest, that is passed 
A • into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let 

ascension. ug CQme boldly unto the throne f gra ce, 

that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time 
of need. (Heb. 4. 14, 16.) 

Because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his 

(Gal. in 4°6^° Ur heaftS ' Cfying ' Abb3 ' Father ' Whitsunday. 

There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the 
city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the Most 
High. (Psalm 46. 4.) 

The hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshipers 
shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth. (St. John 
4- 23.) 

Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, Trinitv c undrv 
which was, and is, and is to come. (Rev. Irtmty * unda y- 
4- 8.) 



THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE 207 

If Then the Minister shall say,, 

DEARLY beloved brethren, the Scripture moveth us, in 
sundry places, to acknowledge and confess our mani- 
fold sins and wickedness; and that we should not dissemble 
nor cloak them before the face of Almighty God our 
heavenly Father; but confess them with an humble, lowly, 
penitent, and obedient heart; to the end that we may obtain 
forgiveness of the same, by his infinite goodness and mercy. 
[*And although we ought, at all times, humbly to acknowl- 
edge our sins before God; yet ought we chiefly so to do, 
when we assemble and meet together to render thanks for 
the great benefits that we have received at his hands, to 
set forth his most worthy praise, to hear his most holy 
Word, and to ask those things which are requisite and 
necessary, as well for the body as the soul.] Wherefore 
I pray and beseech you, as many as are here present, to 
accompany me with a pure heart, and humble voice, unto 
the throne of the heavenly grace, saying — 

If Or else lie shall say as followeth, 
T ET us humbly confess our sins unto Almighty God. 

A General Confession. 

% To be said by the whole Congregation, after the Minister, all 
Kneeling. 

A LMIGHTY and most merciful Father; we have erred, 
"^ and strayed from thy ways like lost sheep. We have 
followed too much the devices and desires of our own 
hearts. We have offended against thy holy laws. We have 
left undone those things which we ought to have done; 
and we have done those things which we ought not to have 
done; and there is no health in us. But thou, O'Lord, 
have mercy upon us, miserable offenders. Spare thou them, 
O God, who confess their faults. Restore thou them that 
are penitent; according to thy promises declared unto man- 
kind in Christ Jesus our Lord. And grant, O most merci- 
ful Father, for his sake, That we may hereafter live a godly, 
righteous, and sober life; To the glory of thy holy name. 
Amen. 

If Then the Minister shall say, 

Q LORD, we beseech thee, absolve thy people from their 

offenses; that, through thy bountiful goodness, we may 

be delivered from the bonds of those sins which by our 

*Omitted by Mr. Wesley and restored in the Wesleyan Prayer 
Book. 



208 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

frailty we have committed. Grant this, O heavenly Father, 
for Jesus Christ's sake, our blessed Lord and Saviour. 

% The People shall answer here, and at the end of all other prayers, 

Amen. 
If Then the Minister shall say the Lord's Prayer; the People also 

repeating it with him, both here, and wheresoever else it is used 

in Divine Service. 

If Then likewise he shall say, 

O Lord, open thou our lips. 
Answer. And our mouth shall show forth thy praise. 
Minister. O God, make speed to save us; 
Answer. O Lord, make haste to help us. 

If Here, all standing up, the Minister shall say, 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy 
Ghost; 

Answer. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever 
shall be, world without end. Amen. 

Minister. Praise ye the Lord. 

Answer. The Lord's name be praised. 

If Then may be said or sung the following Anthem, except when 
some other is appointed, and except also when it is used in the 
course of the Psalms, on the eighteenth day of the month. 

*Venite, exultemus Domino. 

Q COME, let us sing unto the Lord: let us heartily rejoice 
in the strength of our salvation. 

Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving: and 
show ourselves glad in him with Psalms. 

For the Lord is a great God: and a great King above all 
gods. 

In his hand are all the corners of the earth: and the 
strength of the hills is his also. 

The sea is his, and he made it: and his hands prepared 
the dry land. 

O come, let us worship, and fall down: and kneel before 
the Lord our Maker. 

For he is the Lord our God: and we are the people of 
his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. 

O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness: let the 
whole earth stand in awe of him. 

For he cometh, for he cometh to judge the earth: and with 
righteousness to judge the world, and the people with his 
truth. 



* Restored in the Wesleyan Prayer Book. 



THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE 209 

li Then shall follow the Psalms, in order as they are appointed, or 
one of the Selections. And at the end of every Psalm, and like- 
wise at the end of the Venite, Benedicite, Benedicius, Jubilate, 
Cantate, may be, and at the end of the whole Portion of Psalms 
for the day, or other Selections, shall be said or sung the Gloria 
Patri : 

f^-LORY be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the 
^ Holy Ghost; 

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, 
world without end. Amen. 

*" Then shall be read distinctly the First Lesson taken out of the 
Old Testament, as is appointed ; he that readeth, so standing, and 
turning himself, as he may best be heard of all. After which shall 
be said or sung at MORXIXG PRAYER the following Hymn, or 
the Benedicite. See page i. 

V Xote, That before every Lesson, the Minister shall say, Here 
beginneth such a chapter [or verse of such a chapter] of such a 
book; and after every Lesson, Here endeth the First [or the 
Second] Lesson. 

Te Deum laudamus. 

\A7E praise thee, O God; we acknowledge thee to be the 
vv Lord. 

All the earth doth worship thee, the Father everlasting. 

To thee all angels cry aloud; the Heavens, and all the 
Powers therein. 

To thee Cherubim and Seraphim continually do cry, 
Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God of Sabaoth; 

Heaven and earth are full of the Majesty of thy glory. 

The glorious company of the Apostles praise thee. 

The goodly fellowship of the Prophets praise thee. 

The noble army of Martyrs praise thee. 

The holy Church throughout all the world doth acknowl- 
edge thee; 
The Father of an infinite Majesty; 

Thine adorable, true, and only Son; 

Also the Holy Ghost, the Comforter. 

Thou art the King of Glory, O Christ; 

Thou art the everlasting Son of the Father. 

When thou tookest upon thee to deliver man, thou didst 
humble thyself to be born of a Virgin. 

When thou hadst overcome the sharpness of death, thou 
didst open the kingdom of heaven to all believers. 

Thou sittest at the right hand of God, in the glory o£ 
the Father. 

We believe that thou shalt come to be our Judge. 

We therefore pray thee, help thy servants, whom thou 
hast redeemed with thy precious blood. 



ivr 



210 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

Make them to be numbered with thy Saints, in glory 
everlasting. 

O Lord, save thy people, and bless thine heritage. 

Govern them, and lift them up forever. 

Day by day we magnify thee; 

And we worship thy .Name ever, world without end. 

Vouchsafe, O Lord, to keep us this day without sin. 

O Lord, have mercy upon us, have mercy upon us. 

O Lord, let thy mercy be upon us, as our trust is in thee. 

O Lord, in thee have I trusted: let me never be con- 
founded. 

f And at EVENING PRAYER, instead of the Te Deum, shall be 
used one of the following Hymns, or the Bonum est. See page 2. 

Magnificat. St. Luke 1. 46. 

'Y soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit hath re- 
joiced in God my Saviour. 

For he hath regarded the lowliness of his handmaiden. 

For behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me 
blessed. 

For he that is mi-ghty hath magnified me, and holy is his 
Name. 

And his mercy is on them that fear him, throughout all 
generations. 

He hath showed strength with his arm; he hath scattered 
the proud in the imagination of their hearts. 

He hath put down the mighty from their seat, and hath 
exalted the humble and meek. 

He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich 
he hath sent empty away. 

He remembering his mercy hath holpen his servant Israel; 
as he promised to our forefathers, Abraham and his seed, 
forever. 

Glory be to the Father, — 

1 Or this, 

Cantate Domino. Psalm 98. 

■Q SING unto the Lord a new song: for he hath done 
marvelous things. 

With his own right hand, and with his holy arm, hath he 
gotten himself the victory. 

The Lord declared his salvation: his righteousness hath 
he openly showed in the sight of the heathen. 

He hath remembered his mercy and truth toward the 
house of Israel; and all the ends of the world have seen the 
salvation of our God. 



THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE 211 

Show yourselves joyful unto the Lord, all ye lands: sing, 
rejoice, and give thanks. 

Let the sea make a noise, and all that therein is; the 
round world, and they that dwell therein. 

Let the floods clap their hands, and let the hills be joyful 
together before the Lord: for he cometh to judge the earth. 

With righteousness shall he judge the world; and the 
people with equity. 

f Then shall be read in like manner the Second Lesson, taken out 
of the New Testament: and after that, at MORNING PRAYER, 
one of the following Hymns. 

Benedictus. St. Luke 1. 68. 

QLESSED be the Lord God of Israel: for he hath visited 
and redeemed his people; 

And hath raised up a mighty salvation for us: in the house 
of his servant David; 

As he spake by the mouth of his holy Prophets: which 
have been since the world began; 

That we should be saved from our enemies; and from 
the hand of all that hate us. 

To perform the mercy promised to our forefathers: and 
to remember his holy covenant; 

To perform the oath which he sware to our forefather 
Abraham, that he would give us; 

That we, being delivered out of the hand of our enemies, 
might serve him without fear; 

In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of 
our life. 

And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the High- 
est: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to pre- 
pare his ways; 

To give knowledge of salvation unto his people, for the 
remission of their sins, 

Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the day- 
spring from on high hath visited us: 

To give light to them that sit in darkness, and in the 
shadow of death; and to guide our feet into the way of 
peace. 

Glory be to the Father, — 

If Or this, 

Jubilate Deo. 

Q BE joyful in the Lord, all ye lands: serve the Lord with 
gladness, and come before his presence with a song. 
Be ye sure that the Lord he is God; it is he that hath 



212 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

made us and not we ourselves: we are his people, and the 
sheep of his pasture. 

O go your way into his gates with thanksgiving, and into 
his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and speak 
good of his Name. 

For the Lord is gracious, his mercy is everlasting: and 
his truth endureth from generation to generation. 

f And at EVENING PRAYER, instead of the foregoing, shall be 
said or sung one of the following Hymns, or the Benedic, Anima 
Mea. See page 3. 

Nunc Dimittis. St. Luke 2. 29. 

T ORD, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, ac- 
cording to thy word: 

For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, 

Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; 

To be a light to lighten the Gentiles; and to be the glory 
of thy people Israel. 

Glory be to the Father, — 

H Or this, 

Deus misereatur. Psalm 67. 

CjrOD be merciful unto us, and bless us; and show us the 
light of his countenance, and be merciful unto us. 

That thy way may be known upon earth; thy saving 
health among all nations. 

Let the people praise thee, O God: yea, let all the people 
praise thee. 

O let the nations rejoice and be glad; for thou shalt judge 
the people righteously, and govern the nations upon earth. 

Let the people praise thee, O God: yea, let all the people 
praise thee. 

Then shall the earth bring forth her increase; and God, 
even our own God, shall give us his blessing. 

God shall bless us; and all the ends of the world shall 
fear him. 

f Then shall be said the APOSTLES' CREED by the Minister 
and the People, standing: Except on Easter Day, Whitsunday, 
Trinity Sunday, and Christmas Day, and upon those days when 
the Holy Communion is to be celebrated, when the Nicene Creed 
may be used instead thereof. 

T BELIEVE in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven 
and earth: 

And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord: Who was 
conceived by the Holy Ghost; Born of the Virgin Mary; 



THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE 213 

Suffered under Pontius Pilate; Was crucified, dead, and 
buried: [*He descended into hell;] The third day he rose 
again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, And sitteth 
on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; From thence 
he shall come to judge the quick and the dead. 

I believe in the Holy Ghost; The holy Catholic Church; 
The Communion of Saints; The Forgiveness of sins; The 
Resurrection of the body; And the Life everlasting. Amen. 

H Or this, 

"\The Nicene Creed. 

BELIEVE in one God the Father Almighty, Maker of 
heaven and earth, And of all things visible and invisible: 

And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of 
God; Begotten of his Father before all worlds, God of God, 
Light of Light, Very God of very God; Begotten, not 
made, Being of one substance with the Father, By whom 
all things were made: Who for us men and for our salva- 
tion came down from heaven, And was incarnate by the 
Holy Ghost of the Virgin Mary, And was made man; And 
was crucified also for us under Pontius Pilate. He suffered 
and was buried: And the third day he rose again, accord- 
ing to the Scriptures; And ascended into heaven, And sitteth 
on the right hand of the Father: And he shall come again, 
with glory, to judge both the quick and the dead; Whose 
kingdom shall have no end. 

And I believe in the Holy Ghost, The Lord, and Giver 
of Life, Who proceedeth from the Father and the Son, Who 
with the Father and the Son together is worshiped and 
glorified, Who spake by the Prophets. And I believe one 
Catholic and Apostolic Church: I acknowledge one Bap- 
tism for the remission of sins: And I Took for the Resur- 
rection of the dead: And the Life of the world to come. 
Amen. 

r And after that the Minister shall pronounce with a loud voice, 

The Lord be with you; 
Answer. And with thy spirit. 
Minister. Let us pray. 

Lord, have mercy upon us. 
Answer. Christ, have mercy upon us. 
Minister. Lord, have mercy upon us. 



* Retained by Mr. Wesley. 

fRestored to the service by the Wesleyan Church. 






2i 4 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

If Then the Minister may say, 

O Lord, show thy mercy upon us. 

Answer. And grant us thy salvation. 

Minister. O Lord, save the State. 

Answer. And mercifully hear us when we call upon thee. 

Minister. Endue thy Ministers with righteousness. 

Answer. And make thy chosen people joyful. 

Minister. O Lord, save thy people. 

Answer. And bless thine inheritance. 

Minister. Give peace in our time, O Lord. 

Answer. Because there is none other that fighteth for us, 

but only thou, O God. 

Minister. O God, make clean our hearts within us. 

Answer. And take not thy holy Spirit from us. 

'! Then shall follow three Collects: the first of the Day, which shall 
be the same that is appointed at the Communion; the second for 
Peace; the third for Grace to live well; or, for Aid against all 
'Perils, as followeth: all devoutly kneeling. 

The Second Collect, MORNING PRAYER. 
For Peace. 

Q\ GOD, who art the author of peace, and lover of con- 
cord, in knowledge of whom standeth our eternal life, 
whose service is perfect freedom; Defend us thy humble 
servants in all assaults of our enemies; that we, surely 
trusting in thy defence, may not fear the power of any 
adversaries, through the might of Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

The Third Collect, MORNING PRAYER. 
For Grace. 

C\ LORD, our heavenly Father, Almighty and everlasting' 

God, who hast safely brought us to the beginning of 
this day; Defend us in the same with thy mighty power; 
and grant that this day we fall into no sin; neither run -into 
any kind of danger; but that all our doings may be ordered 
by thy governance, to do always that which is righteous 
in thy sight; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

The Second Collect, EVENING PRAYER. 

For Peace. 

Q GOD, from whom all holy desires, all good counsels, and 

all just works do proceed: Give unto thy servants that 

peace which the world cannot give; that both our hearts 

may be set to obey thy commandments, and also that by 






THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE 215 

thee, we, being defended from the fear of our enemies, may 
pass our time in rest and quietness; through the merits 
of Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen. 

The Third Collect, EVENING PRAYER. 

For Aid against all Perils. 

T IGHTEN our darkness, we beseech thee, O Lord; and 
by thy great mercy defend us from all perils and dangers 
of this night; for the love of thy only Son, our Saviour, 
Jesus Christ. Amen. 

\ Here , when convenient, may be sung a Hymn or Anthem^ the 
Offertory also received, and reverently brought to the Minister, 
the Congregation meantime rising; and it shall be placed on the 
Table, with Singing or Prayer as lie may direct. 

^ Note, That when a Sermon or the Communion is to follow, the 
Hymn may be sung after the Prayer of Blessing, The Grace of 
our Lord; — 2 Cor. 13. 14. 

\ The Minister may here end the Morning^ or Evening Prayer with 
such Prayer or Prayers as he shall think fit, closing with The 
Grace of our Lord—. 

A Prayer for the President of the United States, and all in 
Civil Authority. 

Q\ LORD, our heavenly Father, high and mighty, King of 
kings, Lord of lords, who dost from thy throne be- 
hold all the dwellers upon earth; Most heartily we beseech 
thee, with thy favor to behold and bless thy servant The 
President of the United States, and all others in authority; 
and so replenish them with the grace of thy Holy Spirit, 
that they may always incline to thy will, and walk in thy 
way. Endue them plenteously with heavenly gifts; grant 
them in health and prosperity long to live; and finally, 
after this life, to attain everlasting joy and felicity; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

% The following Prayers shall be omitted here when the Litany is 
said, and may be omitted when the Holy Communion is immedi- 
ately to follow. 

A Prayer for Ministers and People. 

A LMIGHTY and everlasting God, who alone workest 
"^ great marvels; Send down upon our Bishops and all 
Ministers of thy Gospel, and upon the Congregations com- 
mitted to their charge, the healthful Spirit of thy grace; 
and, that they may truly please thee, pour upon them the 
continual dew of thy blessing. Grant this, O Lord, for the 
honor of our Advocate and Mediator, Jesus Christ. Amen. 



2x6 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

A Prayer for all Conditions of Men. 

C\ GOD, the Creator and preserver of all mankind, we 
humbly beseech thee for all sorts and conditions of men; 
that thou wouldest be pleased to make thy ways known 
unto them, thy saving health unto all nations. More espe- 
cially we pray for thy holy Church universal; that it may 
be' so guided and governed by thy good Spirit, that all who 
profess and call themselves Christians, may be led into the 
way of truth, and hold the faith in unity of spirit, in the 
bond of peace, and in righteousness of life. Finally, we 
commend to thy fatherly goodness, all those who are any 
ways afflicted or distressed in mind, body, or 

* This is to estate ['^especially those for whom our 
be said when p ravers are desired], that it may please thee 
frayers Sir o e f the to comfort and relieve them, according to 
congregation. their several necessities; giving them patience 

under their sufferings, and a happy issue out 
of all their afflictions. And this we beg for Jesus Christ's 
sake. Amen. 

A General Thanksgiving. 

A LMIGHTY God, Father of all mercies, we, thine un- 
worthy servants, do give thee most humble and hearty 
thanks for all thy goodness and loving-kindness to us, and 
to all men; [^particularly to those who desire 

* This to be now to offer up their praises and thanksgiv- 
satd when any ings for thy late mercies vouchsafed unto 
turn 6 thanks To tnem -] We bless thee for our creation, pres- 
Q d. ervation, and all the blessings of this life; 

but above all, for thine inestimable love in the 
redemption of the world by our Lord Jesus Christ; for the 
means of grace, and for the hope of glory. And we beseech 
thee, give us that due sense of all thy mercies, that our 
hearts may be unfeignedly thankful, and that we may show 
forth thy praise, not only with our lips, but in our lives; by 
giving up ourselves to thy service, and by walking before 
thee in holiness and righteousness all our days; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with thee and the Holy 
Ghost, be all honor and glory, world without end. Amen. 

A Prayer of St. Chrysostom. 

ALMIGHTY God, who hast given us grace, at this time, 
with one accord to make our common supplications 
unto thee; and dost promise, that when two or three are 
gathered together in thy Name, thou wilt grant their re- 
quests; Fulfill now, O Lord, the desires and petitions of 
thy servants, as may be most expedient for them; granting 



THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE 217 

us in this world knowledge of thy truth, and in the world 
to come life everlasting. Amen. 

2 Cor. 13. 14. 

^pHE grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, 
and the fellowship of the Holy Ghost, be with us all 
evermore. Amen. 

Here endeth the Order of Morning and Evening Prayer. 

f When a Sermon is to follow, the Minister shall make use of 

hymns and prayers before and after the same, at his discretion. 



draper* 

FOR VARIOUS OCCASIONS. 

To be used chiefly before the General Thanksgiving, or 
before the final Prayer of Blessing, or the Benediction. 

A Prayer for the Whole State of Christ's Church Militant 
m here on Earth. 

f Appointed by Mr. Wesley to be said immediately after the Offer- 
tory at the Communion Service: first saying, Let us pray for 
the whole state of Christ's Church Militant, etc. 

ALMIGHTY AND EVERLIVING GOD, who by thy holy 
"^ Apostle hast taught us to make prayers and supplica- 
tions, and to give thanks for all men; We humbly beseech 
thee most mercifully [*to accept our alms * j, ., , 
and oblations, and] to receive these our no Ji ms ie ™ ob _ 
prayers, which we offer unto thy Divine lotions, then 
Majesty; beseeching thee to inspire continu- shall the words 
ally the Universal Church with the spirit [to accept our 
of truth, unity, and concord: and grant that a .lms and obla- 
all those who do confess thy Holy Name may } 10 £ s > an V be 
agree in the truth of thy holy Word, and live left unsaid - 
in unity and godly love. We beseech thee also to save and 
defend all Christian Kings, Princes, and Governors; and 
especially thy Servants, the Supreme Rulers of these United 
States; that under them we may be godly and quietly gov- 
erned: and grant unto all that are put in authority under 
them that they may truly and impartially administer justice, 
to the punishment of wickedness and vice, and to the 
maintenance of thy true religion and virtue. Give grace, O 
heavenly Father, to all Bishops and other Ministers of thy 



218 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

Gospel, that they may both by their life and doctrine set 
forth thy true and lively Word, and rightly and duly admin- 
ister thy holy Sacraments. And to all thy people give thy 
heavenly grace; and especially to this congregation here 
present; that with meek heart and due reverence they may 
hear and receive thy holy Word, truly serving thee in holi- 
ness and righteousness all the days of their life. And we 
most humbly beseech thee of thy goodness, O Lord, to com- 
fort and succor all those who in this transitory life are in 
trouble, sorrow, need, sickness, or any other adversity. And 
we also bless thy holy Name for all thy servants departed 
this life in thy faith and fear; beseeching thee to give us 
grace so to follow their good examples, that with them we 
may be partakers of thy heavenly kingdom. Grant this, O 
Father, for Jesus Christ's sake, our only Mediator and 
Advocate. Amen. 

For a Blessing on the Families of the Land. 

ALMIGHTY GOD, our heavenly Father, who settest the 
solitary in families; We commend to thy continual 
care the homes in which thy people dwell. Put far from 
them, we beseech thee, every root of bitterness, the desire of 
vainglory, and the pride of life. Fill them with faith, virtue, 
knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness. Knit togetner 
in constant affection those who, in holy wedlock, have 
been made one flesh; turn the heart of the fathers to the 
children, and the heart of the children to the fathers; and 
so kindle charity among us all that we be evermore kindly 
affectioned with brotherly love; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

For the Country. 

ALMIGHTY God, who in the former time didst lead our 
fathers forth into a wealthy place; Give thy grace, we 
humbly beseech thee, to us their children, that we may al- 
ways approve ourselves a people mindful of thy favor, and 
glad to do thy will. Bless our land with honorable in- 
dustry, sound learning, and pure manners. Defend our 
liberties, preserve our unity. Save us from violence, dis- 
cord, and confusion, from pride and arrogancy, and from 
every evil way. Fashion into one happy people the multi- 
tudes brought hither out of many kindreds and tongues. 
Endue with the spirit of wisdom those whom we intrust in 
thy Name with the authority of governance, to the end that 
there be peace at home, and that we keep a place among 
the nations of the earth. In the time of prosperity, fill our 
hearts with thankfulness; and in the day of trouble, suffer 



THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE 219 

not our trust in thee to fail; all which we ask for Jesus 
Christ's sake. Amen. 

For the Unity of God's People. 

C\ GOD, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, our only 
Saviour, the Prince of Peace; Give us grace seriously 
to lay to heart the great dangers we are in by our unhappy 
divisions. Take away all hatred and prejudice, and what- 
soever else may hinder us from godly union and concord; 
that, as there is but one body, and one spirit, and one 
hope of our calling, one Lord, one Faith, one Baptism, one 
God and Father of us all, so we may all be of one heart, 
and of one soul, united in one holy bond of truth and peace, 
of faith and charity, and may with one mind and one 
mouth glorify thee; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

For all Poor, Homeless, and Neglected Folk. 

Q\ GOD, Almighty and Merciful, who healest those that 
are broken in heart, and turnest the sadness of the sor- 
rowful to joy; Let thy fatherly goodness be upon all that 
thou hast made. Especially we beseech thee to remember 
in pity such as are this day destitute, homeless, or forgotten 
of their fellowmen. Bless the congregation of thy poor. 
Uplift those who are cast down, mightily befriend innocent 
sufferers, and sanctify to them the endurance of their 
wrongs. Cheer with hope all discouraged and unhappy 
people, and by thy heavenly grace preserve from falling 
those whose penury tempteth them to sin. Though they 
be troubled on every side, suffer them not to be distressed; 
though they be perplexed, save them from despair. Grant 
this, O Lord, for the love of Him who for our sakes be- 
came poor, thy Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. 

For Those who Live in Sin. 

XT AVE mercy, heavenly Father, on all who are hardened 
through the deceitfulness of sin; vouchsafe them grace 
to come to themselves, the will and the power to return to 
thee, and the loving welcome of thy forgiveness; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

For Those who Err from the Faith. 

Q FATHER of lights, who art ever pitiful to the manifold 
wanderings of the children of men, and who hast given 
us thy holy Word to be a lantern to our feet amid the dark- 
ness of this world; Have compassion upon all who, by 



220 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

denying the Gospel of thy dear Son, have been led far off 
from peace. Open their hearts to the truth, help them to 
cast down every proud thought, and make them to become 
as little children that they be wise; through Jesus Christ 
our Saviour. Amen. 

A General Intercession. 

C\ GOD, at whose word man goeth forth unto his work 
and to his labor until the evening; Be merciful to all 
whose duties are difficult or burdensome, and comfort them 
concerning their toil. Shield from bodily accident and 
harm the workmen at their work. Protect the efforts of 
sober and industrious men, and suffer not the hire of the 
laborers to be kept back by fraud. Incline the hearts of 
employers and of those whom they employ to mutual for- 
bearance, fairness, and good will. Give the spirit of gov- 
ernance and of a sound mind to all in places of authority. 
Bless the schools of good learning with quietness, and 
grant to every work of mercy an even course. Care for 
all aged persons, and all lictle children, the sick and the 
afflicted, and those who travel by land or by sea. Remem- 
ber all who by reason of weakness are overtaxed, or be- 
cause of poverty are forgotten. Let the sorrowful sighing 
of the prisoner come before thee, and according to the 
greatness of thy power preserve thou those that are ap- 
pointed to die. Give ear unto our prayer, O merciful and 
gracious Father, for the love of thy dear Son our Saviour 
Jesus Christ. Amen. 

For the Spirit of Prayer. 

ALMIGHTY GOD, who hast bidden us seek that we 
"^ may find, and who pourest out on all who desire it the 
spirit of grace and of supplication; Deliver us, when we 
draw nigh to thee, from coldness of heart, and wanderings 
of mind, that with steadfast thoughts and kindled affec- 
tions we may worship thee in spirit and in truth; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Morning. 

C\ GOD, the King eternal, who dividest the day from the 
darkness, and turnest the shadow of death into the 
morning; Drive far off from us all wrong desires, incline 
our hearts to keep thy law, and guide our feet into the way 
of peace, that having done thy will with cheerfulness while 
it was day, we may, when the night cometh, rejoice to give 
thee thanks; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 



THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE 221 

Evening. 

(~) LORD our God, who alone makest us to dwell in safety; 
Refresh with quiet sleep, this night, those who are 
wearied with the labors of the day; and mercifully protect 
from harm all who put their trust in thee; that lying down 
in peace to take our rest, we may fear no evil, but confi- 
dently give ourselves into thy holy keeping; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 



Collects* 



To be said after the Collects of Morning or Evening Prayer, or the 

Communion, at the discretion of the Minister. 

A SSIST us mercifully, O Lord, in these our supplications 
and prayers, and dispose the way of thy servants to- 
ward the attainment of everlasting salvation; that, among 
all the changes and chances of this mortal life, they may 
ever be defended by thy most gracious and ready help; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Q.RANT, we beseech thee, Almighty God, that the words 
which we have heard this day with our outward ears, 
may, through thy grace, be so grafted inwardly in our 
hearts, that they may bring forth in us the fruit of good 
living, to the honor and praise of thy Name; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

T)IRECT us, O Lord, in all our doings, with thy most 
gracious favor, and further us with thy continual help; 
that in all our works, begun, continued, and ended in thee, 
we may glorify thy holy Name, and finally, by thy mercy, 
obtain everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

^LMIGHTY God, the fountain of all wisdom, who know- 
est our necessities before we ask, and our ignorance 
in asking; We beseech thee to have compassion on our in- 
firmities; and those things which for our unworthiness we 
dare not, and for our blindness we cannot ask, vouchsafe 
to give us, for the worthiness of thy Son Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

COLLECT 
that may be said when the Offerings are placed on the Table. 

Q GOD, since all things come of thee, and 'of thine own 

have we given thee; Mercifully accept our prayers and 

oblations; and because, through the weakness of our mortal 



222 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

nature, we can do no good thing without thee, grant us the 
help of thy grace, that in keeping thy commandments we 
may please thee, both in will and deed; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 



Wfyt Uttanp 

OR GENERAL SUPPLICATION. 

If To be said on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. 

C\ GOD the Father of Heaven; have mercy upon us miser 
able sinners. 

O God the Father of Heaven; have mercy upon us miser- 
able sinners. 

O God the Son, Redeemer of the world; have mercy upon 
us miserable sinners. 

O God the Son, Redeemer of the world; have mercy upon 
us miserable sinners. 

O God the Holy Ghost, proceeding from the Father and 
the Son; have mercy upon us miserable sinners. 

O God the Holy Ghost, proceeding from the Father and 
the Son; have mercy upon us miserable sinners. 

O holy, blessed, and glorious Trinity, three Persons, and 
one God; have mercy upon us miserable sinners. 

O holy, blessed, and glorious Trinity, three Persons, and 
one God; have mercy upon us miserable sinners. 

Remember not, Lord, our offences, nor the offences of our 
forefathers; neither take thou vengeance of our sins: Spare 
us, good Lord, spare thy people, whom thou hast redeemed 
with thy most precious blood, and be not angry with us 
forever. 

Spare us, good Lord. 

From all evil and mischief; from sin, from the crafts and 
assaults of the devil, from thy wrath, and from everlasting 
damnation, 

Good Lord, deliver us. 

From all blindness of heart; from pride, vainglory, and 
hypocrisy; from envy, hatred, and malice, and all uncharit- 
ableness, 

Good Lord, deliver us. 

From all inordinate and sinful affections; from all the 
deceits of the world, the flesh, and the devil, 

Good Lord, deliver us. 

From lightning and tempest; from plague, pestilence, and 
famine; from battle and murder, and from sudden death, 

Good Lord, deliver us. 






THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE 223 

From all sedition, privy conspiracy, and rebellion; from 
all false doctrine, heresy, and schism; from hardness of 
heart, and contempt of thy Word and Commandment, 

Good Lord, deliver us. 

By the mystery of thy holy Incarnation; by thy holy 
Nativity and Circumcision; by thy Baptism, Fasting, and 
Temptation, 

Good Lord, deliver us. 

By thine Agony and Bloody Sweat; by thy Cross and Pas- 
sion; by thy precious Death and Burial; by thy glorious 
Resurrection and Ascension; and by the coming of the Holy 
Ghost, 

Good Lord, deliver us. 

In all time of our tribulation; in all time of our prosperity; 
in the hour of death, and in the day of judgment, 

Good Lord, deliver us. 

We sinners do beseech thee to hear us, O Lord God; and 
that it may please thee to rule and govern thy holy Church 
universal in the right way; 

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord. 

That it may please thee to bless and preserve all Christian 
Rulers and Magistrates, giving them grace to execute jus- 
tice, and to maintain truth; 

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord. 

That it may please thee to illuminate all Bishops, Elders, 
and Deacons, with true knowledge and understanding of thv 
Word; and that both by their preaching and living they may 
set it forth, and show it accordingly; 

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord. 

That it may please thee to send forth laborers into thy 
harvest; 

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord. 

That it may please thee to bless and keep all thy people; 

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord. 

That it may please thee to give to all nations unity, peace, 
and concord; 

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord. 

That it may please thee to give us an heart to love and 
fear thee, and diligently to live after thy commandments; 

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord. 

That it may please thee to give to all thy people increase 
of grace, to hear meekly thy Word, and to receive it with 
pure affection, and to bring forth the fruits of the Spirit; 

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord. 

That it may please thee to bring into the way of truth all 
such as have erred, and are deceived; 

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord. 

That it may please thee to strengthen such as do stand; 



224 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

and to comfort and help the weak-hearted; and to raise up 
them that fall; and finally to beat down Satan under our 
feet; 

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord. 

That it may please thee to succor, help, and comfort all 
who are in danger, necessity, and tribulation; 

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord. 

That it may please thee to preserve all that travel by land 
or by water, all women in the perils of childbirth, all sick 
persons and young children; and to show thy pity upon all 
prisoners and captives; 

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord, 

That it may please thee to defend, and provide for, the 
fatherless children, and widows, and all that are desolate 
and oppressed; 

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord. 

That it may please thee to have mercy upon all men; 

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord. 

That it may please *hee to forgive our enemies, perse- 
cutors, and slanderers, and to turn their hearts; 

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord. 

That it may please thee to give and preserve to our use 
the kindly fruits of the earth, so that in due time we may 
enjoy them; 

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord. 

That it may please thee to give us true repentance; to 
forgive us all our sins, negligences, and ignorances; and to 
endue us with the grace of thy Holy Spirit, to amend our 
lives according to thy holy Word; 

We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord. 

Son of God, we beseech thee to hear us. 

Son of God, we beseech thee to hear us. 

O Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world; 

Grant us thy peace. 

O Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world; 

Have mercy upon us. 

If The Minister may, at his discretion, omit all that followeth, to 
the Prayer, We humbly beseech thee, O Father, etc. 

O Christ, hear us. 
O Christ, hear us. 
Lord, have mercy upon us. 
Lord, have mercy upon us. 
Christ, have mercy upon us. 
Christ, have mercy upon us. 
Lord, have mercy upon us. 
Lord, have mercy upon us. 



THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE 225 

If Then shall the Minister, and the People with him, say the Lord's 
Prayer. 

Let us pray. 

r\ GOD, merciful Father, who despisest not the sighing 
^of a contrite heart, nor the desire of such as be sorrow- 
ful; Mercifully assist our prayers which we make before thee, 
in all our troubles and adversities, whensoever they oppress 
us; and graciously hear us, that those evils, which the craft 
and subtility of the devil or man worketh against us, be 
brought to nought, and by the providence of thy goodness 
be dispersed; that we thy servants, being hurt by no perse- 
cutions, may evermore give thanks unto thee in thy holy 
Church; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 

O Lord, arise, help us, and deliver us for thy Name's 
sake. 

Q GOD, we have heard with our ears, and our fathers have 
declared unto us, the noble works that thou didst in 
their days, and in the old time before them. 

O Lord, arise, help us, and deliver us from thine honor. 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy 
Ghost; 

Answer. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall 
be, world without end. Amen. 

From our enemies defend us, O Christ. 

Graciously look upon our afflictions. 

Pitifully behold the sorrows of our hearts. 

Mercifully forgive the sins of thy people. 

Favorably with mercy hear our prayers.* 

O Son of David, have mercy upon us. 

Both now and ever vouchsafe to hear us, O Christ. 

Graciously hear us, O Christ; graciously hear us, O Lord 
Christ. 

Minister. O Lord, let thy mercy be showed upon us; 

Answer. As we do put our trust in thee. 

Let us pray. 

*\A7'E humbly beseech thee, O Father, mercifully to look 
upon our infirmities; and for the glory of thy Name, 
turn from us all those evils that we most righteously have 
deserved; and grant, that in all our troubles we may put 
our whole trust and confidence in thy mercy, and evermore 
serve thee in holiness and pureness of living, to thy honor 
and glory; through our only Mediator and Advocate, Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 



226 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

IT Here shall follow Prayers according to the discretion of the 
Minister. 

A Prayer of St. Chrysostom. 

A LMIGHTY God, who hast given us grace at this time 
"^ with one accord to make our common supplications 
unto thee, and dost promise that when two or three are 
gathered together in thy Name, thou wilt grant their re- 
quests; Fulfill now, O Lord, the desires and petitions of thy 
servants, as may be most expedient for them: granting us 
in this world knowledge of thy truth, and in the world to 
come life everlasting. Amen. 

2 Cor. 13. 14. 

^PHE grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, 
and the fellowship of the Holy Ghost, be with us all 
evermore. Amen. 

Here endeth the Litany. 



COLLECTS, EPISTLES, AND GOSPELS 

FROM THE SUNDAY SERVICE BOOK, AND DESIGNED TO 
BE USED ON SUNDAYS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. 

W&z Jfirsft gmnbap in gbbent* 

The Collect. 

^LMIGHTY GOD, give us grace that we may cast away 
the works of darkness, and put upon us the armor of 
light, now in the time of this mortal life, in which thy Son 
Jesus Christ came to visit us in great humility; that in the 
last day, when he shall come again in his glorious Majesty, 
to judge both the quick and dead, we may rise to the life 
immortal, through him who liveth and reigneth with thee 
and the Holy Ghost, now and ever. Amen. 
The Epistle. Rom. 13. 8-14. The Gospel. St. Matt. 21. 1-13 

&fje g>econb gmntmp in &bbertt 

The Collect. 

gLESSED LORD, who hast caused all holy Scriptures to 
be written for our learning; Grant that we may in such 
wise hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, 
that by patience, and comfort of thy holy Word, we may 
embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting 
life, which thou hast given us in our Saviour Jesus Christ. 
Amen. 
The Epistle. Rom. 15. 4-13- The Gospel. St. Luke 21. 25-33. 

Qflbe HZfyivti gmnbap in gfcrbent 

The Collect. 

Q LORD JESUS CHRIST, who at thy first coming didst 

send thy messenger to prepare thy way before thee; 

Grant that the ministers and stewards of thy mysteries may 

likewise so prepare and make ready thy way, by turning the 

*Advent Sunday is always the Sunday nearest to November 30th 
whether before or after. 

The Proper Psalms for this Day are, Morning, 8, 50; Evening 96, 97. 
227 



228 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

hearts of the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, that at 
thy second coming to judge the world we may be found an 
acceptable people in thy sight, who livest and reignest with 
the Father and the Holy Spirit, ever one God, world without 
end. Amen. 
The Epistle, i Cor. 4. 1-5. The Gospel. St. Matt. 11. 2-10 

Cfie jfourtf) gmnbap tn gfcbent 

The Collect. 

C\ LORD, raise up, we pray thee, thy power, and come 
among us, and with great might succor us; that whereas, 
through our sins and wickedness, we are sore let and hin- 
dered in running the race that is set before us, thy bountiful 
grace and mercy may speedily help and deliver us, through 
the satisfaction of thy Son our Lord; to whom, with thee 
and the Holy Ghost, be honor and glory, world without" 
end. Amen. 
The Epistle. Phil. 4. 4-7. The Gospel. St. John 1. 19-28, 

THE NATIVITY OF OUR LORD, OR THE BIRTHDAY OF 
CHRIST, COMMONLY CALLED 

Cfjristmasubap 

The Collect. 

A LMIGHTY GOD, who hast given us thy only begotten 
Son to take our nature upon him, and as at this time to 
be born of a pure Virgin; Grant that we, being regenerate, 
and made thy children by adoption and grace, may daily be 
renewed by the Holy Spirit; through the same our Lord 
Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the 
same Spirit, ever one God, world without end. Amen. 
The Epistle. Heb. 1. 1-12. The Gospel. St. John 1. 1-14. 

&fce jftrsit gmnfcap after C^rtsitmasf=tiap 

The Collect. 

ALMIGHTY GOD, who hast given us thy only begotten 
Son to take our nature upon him, and as at this time 
to be born of a pure Virgin; Grant that we, being regen- 
erate, and made thy children by adoption and grace, may 
daily be renewed by thy Holy Spirit; through the same 
our Lord Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with thee 
and the same Spirit, ever one God, world without end. 
Amen. 
The Epistle. Gal. 4. 1-7. The Gospel. St. Matt. 1. 18-24. 



THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE 229 

Cfje g>econb gmnbap after Cfjrtetmag 

The Collect. 

Q LORD, we beseech thee mercifully to receive the prayers 
^ of thy people who call upon thee; and grant that they 
may both perceive and know what things they ought to do, 
and also may have grace and power faithfully to fulfill the 
same; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 
The Epistle. Rom. 12. 1-5. The Gospel. St. Luke 2. 41-52. 

tEfje t£fjtrb gmnfcap after Cfcrtetmas 

The Collect. 

ALMIGHTY AND EVERLASTING GOD, who dost 
govern all things in heaven and earth; Mercifully hear 
the supplications of thy people, and grant us thy peace all 
the days of our life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 
The Epistle. Rom. 12. 6-16. The Gospel. St. John 2. 1-11. 

tE%e Jfourtfj gmnbap after Cfrrtetma* 

The Collect. 

A LMIGHTY AND EVERLASTING GOD, mercifully 
look upon our infirmities, and in all our dangers and 
necessities stretch forth thy right hand to help and defend 
us; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 
The Epistle. Rom. 12. 16-21. The Gospel. St. Matt. 8-13. 

{Efje Jfiftfj gmntiap after Christmas 

The Collect. 

Q GOD, who knowest us to be set in the midst of so many 
and great dangers, that by reason of the frailty of our 
nature we cannot always stand upright; Grant to us such 
strength and protection as may support us in all dangers, 
and carry us through all temptations; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 
The Epistle. Rom. 13. 1-7. The Gospel. St. Matt. 8. 23-34. 

W$t guxtfj £>unbas> after Cfjrtstmaa 

The Collect. 

C\ LORD, we beseech thee to keep thy Church and house- 

hold continually in thy true religion; that they, who do 

lean only upon the hope of thy heavenly grace, may ever- 



230 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

more be defended by thy mighty power; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

The Epistle. Col. 3. 12-17. The Gospel. St. Matt. 13. 24-30. 

SEfie g>ebent& gmnbap after Cfirisftmag 

The Collect. 

Q GOD, whose blessed Son was manifested that he might 
destroy the works of the devil, and make us the sons of 
God, and heirs of eternal life; Grant us, we beseech thee, 
that, having this hope, we may purify ourselves, even as 
he is pure; that, when he shall appear again with power and 
great glory, we may be made like unto him in his eternal 
and glorious kingdom; where with thee, O Father, and thee, 
O Holy Ghost, he liveth and reigneth, ever one God, world 
without end. Amen. 
The Epistle. 1 St. John 3. 1-8. The Gospel. St. Matt. 24. 23-31. 

Wbt Ctgfjtf) gmttbap after Cfjrtetmas 

The Collect. 

Q LORD, we beseech thee favorably to hear the prayers of 
thy people - r that we, who are justly punished for our 
offences, may be mercifully delivered by thy goodness, for 
the glory of thy Name; through Jesus Christ our Saviour, 
who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost, ever 
■ one God, world without end. Amen. 
The Epistle. 1 Cor. 9. 24-27. The Gospel. St. Matt. 20. 1-16. 

W$t J^tntfj gmnbap after Cfjrisitma* 

The Collect. 

C\ LORD GOD, who seest that we put not our trust in any 
thing that we do; Mercifully grant that by thy power 
we may be defended against all adversity; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

The Epistle. 2 Cor. 11. 19-31. The Gospel. St. Luke 8. 4-15. 

Wbt &ent& gmnbap after C&rtetmatf 

The Collect. 

Q LORD, who hast taught us that all our doings without 

love are nothing worth; Send thy Holy Spirit, and pour 

into our hearts that most excellent gift of love, the very 

bond of peace, and of all virtues; without which whoso- 






THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE 231 

ever liveth is counted dead before thee. Grant this for thine 

only Son Jesus Christ's sake. Amen. 

The Epistle. 1 Cor. 13. 1-13. The Gospel. St. Luke 18. 31-43. 

tEfje €lebentf) gmntrap after CJjrtStmafif 

The Collect. 

r\ LORD, who for our sake didst fast forty days and forty 
nights; Give us grace to use such abstinence, that, our 
flesh being subdued to the Spirit, we may ever obey thy 
godly motions in righteousness and true holiness, to thy 
honor and glory, who livest and reignest with the Father 
and the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen. 
The Epistle. 2 Cor. 6. 1-10. The Gospel. St. Matt. 4. i-n. 

&fje ^toelftft gmnfcap after Cfjristmag 

The Collect. 

A LMIGHTY GOD, who seest that we have no power of 
ourselves to help ourselves; Keep us both outwardly 
in our bodies, and inwardly in our souls; that we may be 
defended from all adversities which may happen to the 
body, and from all evil thoughts which may assault and 
hurt the soul; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 
The Epistle. 1 Thess. 4. 1-8. The Gospel. St. Matt. 15. 21-28. 

GDfie TOtrteentf) gmnbap after Christmas 

The Collect. 

T^"E beseech thee, Almighty God, look upon the hearty 
desires of thy humble servants, and stretch forth the 
right hand of thy Majesty, to be our defence against all our 
enemies; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

The Epistle. Eph. 5. 1-14. The Gospel. St. Luke 11. 14-28. 

Wfyt Jfourteentfj gmnbap after Cfjrtetmag 

The Collect. 

Q.RANT, we beseech thee, Almighty God, that we, who for 
^ our evil deeds do worthily deserve to be punished, by 
the comfort of thy grace may mercifully be relieved; through 
our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. 
The Epistle. Gal. 4. 21-31. The Gospel. St. John 6. 1-14. 



232 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

W$t Jfifteentfj ^unbap after Cfjrtetmas 

The Collect. 

"\A7E beseech thee, Almighty God, mercifully to look upon 
thy people; that by thy great goodness they may be 
governed and preserved evermore, both in body and soul; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

The Epistle, i Cor. 9. 24-27. The Gospel. St. Matt. 20. 1-16. 

Wbt gmnfcrap next before Caster 

The Collect. 

ALMIGHTY AND EVERLASTING GOD, who, of thy 
tender love toward mankind, has sent thy Son, our 
Saviour Jesus Christ, to take upon him our flesh, and to 
suffer, death upon the cross, that all mankind should follow 
the example of his great humility; Mercifully grant that we 
may both follow the example of his patience, and also be 
made partakers of his resurrection; through the same Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 
The Epistle. Phil. 2. 5-1 1. The Gospel. St. Matt. 27. 1-54. 

(^oob Jfribap 

The Collect. 

A LMIGHTY GOD, we beseech thee graciously to behold 
this thy family, for which our Lord Jesus Christ was 
contented to be betrayed, and given up into the hands of 
wicked men, and to suffer death upon the cross, who now 
liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost, ever 
one God, world without end. Amen. 

ALMIGHTY AND EVERLASTING GOD, by whose 
Spirit the whole body of the Church is governed and 
sanctified; Receive our supplications and prayers, which we 
offer before thee for all estates of men in thy holy Church, 
that every member of the same, in his vocation and ministry, 
may truly and godly serve thee; through our Lord and 
Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. 

Q MERCIFUL GOD, who hast made all men, and hatest 
nothing that thou hast made, nor wouldest the death 
of a sinner, but rather that he should be converted and live; 
Have mercy upon all Jews, Turks, Infidels, and Heretics; 
and take from them all ignorance, hardness of heart, and 
contempt of thy Word; and so fetch them home, blessed 






THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE 233 

Lord, to thy flock, that they may be saved among the 
remnant of the true Israelites, and be made one fold under 
one shepherd, Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth 
with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, world without end. 

Amen. 

The Epistle. Heb. 10. 1-25. The Gospel. St. John 19. 1-37. 

Casrter Bap 

*' At Morning Prayer before the Psalm these Anthems shall be 
sung or said. 

f"*HRIST our Passover is sacrificed for us: therefore let 
us keep the feast; 
Not with the old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice 
and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity 
and truth. 1 Cor. 5. 7. 

^HRIST being raised from the dead, dieth no more; death 
hath no more dominion over him. 

For in that he died, he died unto sin once; but in that he 
liveth, he liveth unto God. 

Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto 
sin, but alive unto God, through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Rom. 6. 9. 

r^HRIST is risen from the dead, and become the first- 
fruits of them that slept. 

For since by man came death, by man came also the 
resurrection of the dead. 

For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be 
made alive. 1 Cor. 15. 20. 

Q.LORY be to the Father, etc. 

As it was in the beginning, etc. 

The Collect. 

^LMIGHTY GOD, who, through thine only begotten Son 
Jesus Christ, hast overcome death, and opened unto us 
the gate of everlasting life; We humbly beseech thee, that, 
as by thy special grace preventing us, thou dost put into 
our minds good desires; so by thy continual help we may 
bring the same to good effect; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy 
Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. 
The Epistle. Col. 3. 1-7. The Gospel. St. John 20. 1-10. 






234 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

Wfyt rifirst gmnbap after Carter 

The Collect. 

A LMIGHTY FATHER, who hast given thine only Son to 
die for our sins, and to rise again for our justification; 
Grant us so to put away the leaven of malice and wicked- 
ness, that we may always serve thee in pureness of living 
and truth; through the merits of the same thy Son Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 
The Epistle, i St. John 5. 4-12. The Gospel. St. John 20. 19-23. 

W$t g>econb gmnbap after Caster 

The Collect. 

ALMIGHTY GOD, who hast given thine only Son to be 
unto us both a sacrifice for sin, and also an ensample 
of godly life; Give us grace that we may always most thank- 
fully receive that his inestimable benefit; and also daily 
endeavor ourselves to follow the blessed steps of his most 
holy life; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 
The Epistle. 1 St. Pet. 2. 19-25. The Gospel. St. John 10. 11-16. 

GDfje tEinrfc gmnbap after Caster 

The Collect. 

ALMIGHTY GOD, who showest to them that are in error 
the light of thy truth, to the intent that they may return 
into the way of righteousness; Grant unto all them that are 
admitted into the fellowship of Christ's Religion, that they 
may avoid those things that are contrary to their profes- 
sion, and follow all such things as are agreeable to the same; 
through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. 
The Epistle. 1 St. Pet. 2. 11-17. The Gospel. St. John 16. 16-22. 

{Efje Jfourtf) ^mnbap after Caster 

The Collect. 

Q ALMIGHTY GOD, who alone canst order the unruly 
wills and affections of sinful men; Grant unto thy peo- 
ple, that they may love the thing which thou commandest, 
and desire that which thou dost promise; that so, among 
the sundry and manifold changes of the •world, our hearts 
may surely there be fixed, where true joys are to be found; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 
The Epistle. St. James 1. 17-21. The Gospel. St. John 16. 5-15. 



THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE 235 

*Efje Jftftf) gmntmp after Caster 

The Collect. 

Q LORD, from whom all good things do come; Grant to 
us thy humble servants, that by thy holy inspiration, 
we may think those things that are good, and, by thy merci- 
ful guiding, may perform the same; through our Lord Jesus 
Christ. Amen. 
The Epistle. St. James 1. 22-27. The Gospel. St. John 16. 23-33. 

W$t &&tzn$ion 2£ap 

The Collect. 

Q-RANT, we beseech thee, Almighty God, that like as we 
do believe thy only begotten Son our Lord Jesus Christ 
to have ascended into the heavens; so we may also in heart 
and mind thither ascend, and with him continually dwell, 
who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost, 
one God, world without end. Amen. 
For the Epistle. Acts i. i-ii. The Gospel. St. Mark 16. 14-20. 

£>unbap after ^tension 23a«p 

The Collect. 

Q GOD, the King of glory, who hast exalted thine only 
Son Jesus Christ with great triumph unto thy kingdom 
in heaven; We beseech thee, leave us not comfortless; but 
send to us thine Holy Ghost to comfort us, and exalt us 
unto the same place whither our Saviour Christ is gone 
before; who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy 
Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen. 
The Epistle. 1 St. Pet. 4. 7-1 1. The Gospel. St. John 15. 26 

to chap. 16. 4. 

^fntsunbap 

The Collect. 

C\ GOD, who as at this time didst teach the hearts of thy 
faithful people, by sending to them the light of thy Holy 
Spirit; Grant us by the same Spirit to have a right judgment 
in all things, and evermore to rejoice in his holy comfort; 
through the merits of Christ Jesus our Saviour, who liveth 
and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the same Spirit, one 
God, world without end. Amen. 
For the Epistle. Acts 2. 1-11. The Gospel. St. John 14. 15-31. 



236 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

The Collect. 






ALMIGHTY AND EVERLASTING GOD, who hast 
given unto us thy servants grace, by the confession of 
a true faith, to acknowledge the glory of the eternal Trinity, 
and in the power of the Divine Majesty to worship the 
Unity; We beseech thee that thou wouldest keep us stead- 
fast in this faith, and evermore defend us from all ad- 
versities, who livest and reignest, one God, world without 
end. Amen. 
For the Epistle. Rev. 4. 11, The Gospel St. John 3. 1-15 



3Dfje jftrjst gmntrap after GErmttp 

The Collect. 






Q GOD, the strength of all those who put their trust in 
thee; Mercifully accept our prayers; and because, 
through the weakness of our mortal nature, we can do no 
good thing without thee, grant us the help of thy grace, that 
in keeping thy commandments we may please thee, both in 
will and deed ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 
The Epistle. 1 St. John 4. 7-21. The Gospel. St. Luke 16. 19-31. 

GD&e &econb gmnbap after GDrinttp 

The Collect. 

C\ LORD, who never failest to help and govern those whom 
thou dost bring up in thy steadfast fear and love; Keep 
us, we beseech thee, under the protection of thy good provi- 
dence, and make us to have a perpetual fear and love of thy 
holy Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 
The Epistle. 1 St. John 3. 13-24. The Gospel. St. Luke 14. 16-24. 

Wbt GTJjtrb gmnbap after Crtmtp 

The Collect. 

Q LORD, we beseech thee mercifully to hear us; and grant 
that we, to whom thou hast given an hearty desire to 
pray, may, by thy mighty aid, be defended and comforted in 
all dangers and adversities; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 
The Epistle. 1 St. Pet. 5. 5-1 1. The Gospel. St. Luke 15. 1-10. 



THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE 237 

Wbt Jfourtfj gmnbap after tErtmtp 

The Collect. 

Q GOD, the protector of all that trust in thee, without 
whom nothing is strong, nothing is holy; Increase and 
multiply upon us thy mercy; that, thou being our ruler and 
guide, we may so pass through things temporal, that we 
finally lose not the things eternal. Grant this, O heavenly 
Father, for Jesus Christ's sake our Lord. Amen. 
The Epistle. Rom. 8. 18-23. The Gospel. St. Luke 6. 36-42. 

QTje Jftftfj gmnbap after (Erimtp 

The Collect. 

Q-RANT, O Lord, we beseech thee, that the course of this 
world may be so peaceably ordered by thy governance, 
that thy Church may joyfully serve thee in all godly quiet- 
ness; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

The Epistle. 1 St. Pet. 3. 8-14. The Gospel. St. Luke 5. 1-11. 

QDfje g>ixtf) gmnbap after QTrimtp 

The Collect. 

Q GOD, who hast prepared for them that love thee such 
good things as pass man's understanding; Pour into our 
hearts such love toward thee, that we, loving thee above all 
things, may obtain thy promises, which exceed all that we 
can desire; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 
The Epistle. Rom. 6. 3-1 1. The Gospel. St. Matt. 5. 20-26. 

&fje g>ebentf) gmnbap after Qfrim'tp 

The Collect. 

T ORD OF ALL POWER AND MIGHT, who art the 
author and giver of all good things; Graft in our hearts 
the love of thy Name, increase in us true religion, nourish us 
with all goodness, and of thy great mercy keep us in the 
same; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 
The Epistle. Rom. 6. 1-9-23. The Gospel. St. Mark 8. 1-9. 

€#e Ctafjtf) gmnfcap after QDrtmtp 

The Collect. 

Q GOD, whose never-failing providence ordereth all things 

both in heaven and earth; We humbly beseech thee to 

put away from us all hurtful things, and to give us those 



I 



238 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

things which are profitable for us; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

The Epistle. Rom. 8. 12-17. The Gospel. St. Matt. 7. 15-2 

Qflfje Jltntf) ^unfcrap after ^rimrp 

The Collect. 

Q-RANT to us, Lord, we beseech thee, the spirit to think 
and do always such things as be rightful; that we, who 
cannot do anything that is good without thee, may by thee 
be enabled to live according to thy will; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 
The Epistle. 1 Cor. 10. 1-13. The Gospel. St. Luke 16. 1-9. 

W$t Centfi gmnbap after tErimtp 

The Collect. 

T ET thy merciful ears, O Lord, be open to the prayers of 
thy humble servants; and that they may obtain their 
petitions, make them to ask such things as shall please thee; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

The Epistle. 1 Cor. 12. 1-11. The Gospel. St. Luke 19. 41-47. 

(Efje Clebentfj gmnbap after Crtmtp 

The Collect. 

Q GOD, who declarest thy almighty power most chiefly in 
showing mercy and pity; Mercifully grant unto us such 
a measure of thy grace, that we, running the way of thy 
commandments, may obtain thy gracious promises, and be 
made partakers of thy heavenly treasure; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen.- 
The Epistle. 1 Cor. 15. 1-11. The Gospel. St. Luke 18. 9-14. 

Cje Ctoelftfi gmntrap after Crimtp 

The Collect. 

ALMIGHTY AND EVERLASTING GOD, who art al- 
"^ ways more ready to hear than we to pray, and art wont 
to give more than either we desire or deserve; Pour down 
upon us the abundance of thy mercy, forgiving us those 
things whereof our conscience is afraid, and giving us those 
good things which we are not worthy to ask, but through 
the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ thy Son, our Lord. 
Amen. 
The Epistle. 2 Cor. 3. 4-9. The Gospel. St. Mark 7. 31-37* 



THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE 239 

W$t Cfjtrteentfj gmnbap after QDrimtp 

The Collect. 

ALMIGHTY AND MERCIFUL GOD, of whose only gift 
"^ it cometh that thy faithful people do unto thee true and 
laudable service; Grant, we beseech thee, that we may so 
faithfully serve thee in this life, that we fail not finally to 
attain thy heavenly promises; through the merits of Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 
The Epistle, Gal. 3. 16-22. The Gospel. St. Luke 10. 23-37. 

Wbt jfoutteentf) gmnbap after GTrimtp 

The Collect. 

ALMIGHTY AND EVERLASTING GOD, give unto us 
the increase of faith, hope, and love; and that we may 
obtain that which thou dost promise, make us to love that 
which thou dost command; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 
The Epistle. Gal. 5. 16-24. The Gospel. St. Luke 17. 11 -19. 

Gtfje jftfteentf) gmnbap after Crtnttp 

The Collect. 

Tf"EEP, we beseech thee, O Lord, thy 'Church with thy per- 
petual mercy; and, because the frailty of man without 
thee cannot but fall, keep us ever by thy help from all things 
hurtful, and lead us to all things profitable to our salvation; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 
The Epistle. Gal. 6. 11-18. The Gospel. St. Matt. 6. 24-34. 

W$t guxteentt) &unbap after GTrtmtp 

The Collect. 

Q LORD, we beseech thee, let thy continual pity cleanse 

and defend thy Church; and, because it cannot continue 

in safety without thy succor, preserve it evermore by thy 

help and goodness; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

The Epistle. Eph. 3. 13-21. The Gospel. St. Luke 7. 11-17. 

Cfje g>ebenteentfj gwnbap after ^rmitp 

The Collect. 
T ORD, we pray thee, that thy grace may always prevent 
and follow us; and make us continually to be given to 
all good works; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

The Epistle. Eph. 4. 1-6. The Gospel. St. Luke 14. 1-11.. 



240 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

QEtye €igfcteentf) gmnfcrap after Wvinitp 

The Collect. 

T ORD, we beseech thee, grant thy people grace to with- 

stand the temptations of the world, the flesh, and the 

devil; and with pure hearts and minds to follow thee, the 

only God; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

The Epistle, i Cor. i. 4-8. The Gospel. St. Matt. 22. 34-46, 



' 



W$t ^ttneteentfj £>unbap after ^rtnitp 

The Collect. 

C\ GOD, forasmuch as without thee we are not able to 
please thee; Mercifully grant, that thy Holy Spirit may 
in all things direct and rule our hearts; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

The Epistle. Eph. 4. 17-23. The Gospel. St. Matt. 9. 1-8. 

W$t GTtoentiet!) gmnbap after QTrtmtp 

The Collect. 

Q ALMIGHTY AND MOST MERCIFUL GOD, of thy 
bountiful goodness keep us, we beseech thee, from all 
things that may hurt us; that we, being ready both in body 
and soul, may cheerfully accomplish those things which 
thou wouldest have done; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 
The Epistle. Eph. 5. 15-21. The Gospel. St. Matt. 22. 1-14. 

Wi}t Ctoentp=ftrgt £>unbap after Crtmtp 

The Collect. 

/j-RANT, we beseech thee, merciful Lord, to thy faithful 
people pardon and peace; that they may be cleansed 
from all their sins, and serve thee with a quiet mind; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

The Epistle. Eph. 6. 10-20. The Gospel. St. John 4. 46-54. 

Wi)t Wtotntp-auonb £>tmbap after Wxinity 

The Collect. 

T ORD, we beseech thee to keep thy household the Church 

in continual godliness; that through thy protection it 

may be free from all adversities, and devoutly given to serve 



THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE 241 

thee in good works, to the glory of thy Name; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

The Epistle. Phil. 1. 3-1 1. The Gospel. St. Matt. 1,8. 21-35. 

W$t {EtoentHiiirb £>unbaj> after Qfrtnitp 

The Collect. 

C\ GOD, our refuge and strength, who art the author of all 
godliness; Be ready, we beseech thee, to hear the devout 
prayers of thy Church; and grant that those things which we 
ask faithfully we may obtain effectually; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 
The Epistle. Phil. 3. 17-21. The Gospel. St. Matt. 22. 15-22; 

^fje QDtoent|>=four.tJ) &unbap after (Eritutp 

The Collect. 

Q LORD, we beseech thee, absolve thy people from their 
offences; that through thy bountiful goodness^we may all 
be delivered from the bands of those sins, which by our 
frailty we have committed. Grant this, O heavenly Father, 
for Jesus Christ's sake, our blessed Lord and Saviour. 
Amen. 
The Epistle. Col. 1. 3-12. The Gospel. St. Matt. 9. 18-26*. 

€3je {Etoentp=ftftt> gmnbap after Zvinitp 

The Collect. 

QTIR up, we beseech thee, O Lord, the wills of thy faithful 
people, that they, plenteously bringing forth the fruit of 
good works, may of these be plenteously rewarded; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 
For the Epistle. Jer. 23. 5-8. The Gospel. St. John 6. 5-14.. 



COLLECTS FOR 

€pipfjanp anb &atf) WthntsLbap 

Note, That Epiphany and Ash Wednesday are Days 
widely observed in the Christian Year. The Collects and 
citations for them are appended. 



242 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

OR MANIFESTATION OF CHRIST TO THE GENTILES, 

Being the Sixth Day of January. 

The Collect. 

Q GOD, who by the leading of a star didst manifest thy 
^^ only begotten Son to the Gentiles; Mercifully grant that 
we, who know thee now by faith, may after this life have the 
fruition of thy glorious Godhead; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 
The Epistle. Eph. 3. 1-12. The Gospel. St. Matt. 2. 1-12. 

OBSERVED AS THE FIRST DAY OF LENT. 

Being the Wednesday following the Tenth Sunday after 
Christmas. 

The Collect. 

Ji LMIGHTY and everlasting God, who hatest nothing 
*^ that thou hast made, and dost forgive the sins of all 
those who are penitent; Create and make in us new and 
contrite hearts, that we, worthily lamenting our sins and 
acknowledging our wretchedness, may obtain of thee, the 
God of all mercy, perfect remission and forgiveness; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 
For the Epistle. Joel 2. 12-17. The Gospel. St. Matt. 6. 16-21. 

Alternative S>j>mng anb Canticles; 

FOR MORNING AND EVENING PRAYER. 

Benedicite, omnia opera Domini. 

C\ ALL ye Works of the Lord, bless ye the Lord; praise 
him, and magnify him forever. 

O ye Angels of the Lord, bless ye the Lord: praise him, 
and magnify him forever. 

O ye Heavens, bless ye the Lord: praise him, and magnify 
him forever. 

O ye Waters that be above the firmament, bless ye the 
Lord: praise him, and magnify him forever. 

O all ye Powers of the Lord, bless ye the Lord: praise 
him, and magnify him forever. 



THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE 243 

O ye Sun and Moon, bless ye the Lord: praise him, and 
magnify him forever. 

O ye Stars of Heaven, bless ye the Lord: praise Him, and 
magnify him forever. 

O ye Showers and Dew, bless ye the Lord: praise him, 
and magnify him forever. 

O ye Winds of God, bless ye the Lord: praise him, and 
magnify him forever. 

O ye Fire and Heat, bless ye the Lord: praise him, and 
magnify him forever. 

O ye Winter and Summer, bless ye the Lord: praise him, 
and magnify him forever. 

O ye Dews and Frosts, bless ye the Lord: praise him, and 
magnify him forever. 

O ye Frost and Cold, bless ye the Lord: praise him, and 
magnify him forever. 

O ye Ice and Snow, bless ye the Lord: praise him, and 
magnify him forever. 

O ye Nights and Days, bless ye the Lord: praise him, and 
magnify him forever. 

O ye Light and Darkness, bless ye the Lord: praise him, 
and magnify him forever. 

O ye Lightnings and Clouds, bless ye the Lord: praise 
him, and magnify him forever. 

O let the Earth bless the Lord: yea, let it praise him, and 
magnify him forever, 

O ye Mountains and Hills, bless ye the Lord: praise him, 
and magnify him forever. 

O all ye Green Things upon the earth, bless ye the Lord: 
praise him, and magnify him forever. 

O ye Wells, bless ye the Lord: praise him, and magnify 
him forever. 

O ye Seas and Floods, bless ye the Lord: praise him, and 
magnify him forever. 

O ye Whales, and all that move in the waters, bless ye 
the Lord: praise him, and magnify him forever. 

O all ye Fowls of the Air, bless ye the Lord: praise him, 
and magnify him forever. 

O all ye Beasts and Cattle, bless ye the Lord: praise him, 
and magnify him forever. 

O ye Children of Men, bless ye the Lord: praise him, and 
magnify him forever. 

O let Israel bless the Lord: praise him, and magnify him 
forever. 

O ye Priests of the Lord, bless ye the Lord: praise him, 
and magnify him forever. 

O ye Servants of the Lord, bless ye the Lord: praise him, 
and magnify him forever. 



^44 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

O ye Spirits and Souls of the Righteous, bless ye the 
Xord: praise him, and magnify him forever. 

O ye holy and humble Men of heart, bless ye the Lord; 
praise him, and magnify him forever. 

Bonum est coniiteri. Psalm 92. 

TT is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to 

sing praises unto thy Name, O Most Highest; 

To tell of thy loving-kindness early in the morning, and 
of thy truth in the night season; 

Upon an instrument of ten strings, and upon the lute; 
upon a loud instrument, and upon the harp. 

For thou, Lord, hast made me glad through thy works; 
and I will rejoice in giving praise for the operations of thy 
hands. 

Benedic, anima me a. Psalm 103. 

P RAISE the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, 
praise his holy Name. 

Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: 

Who forgiveth all thy sin, and, healeth all thine in- 
firmities; 

Who saveth thy life from destruction, and crowneth thee 
with mercy and loving-kindness. 

O praise the Lord, ye angels of his, ye that excel in 
strength; ye that fulfill his commandment, and hearken unto 
the voice of his word. 

O praise the Lord, all ye his hosts; ye servants of his 
that do his pleasure. 

O speak good of the Lord, all ye works of his, in all 
places of his dominion; praise thou the Lord, O my soul. 



0vtntv for tfje Communion 

1784. 

1. The Lord's Prayer. Minister standing till after the 

Commandments. 

2. Collect: "Almighty God, unto whom" — 

3. Ten Commandments and Responses. The Congregation 

kneeling. 

4. Collect for Supreme Rulers. All kneeling. 

5. Collect of the Day. 

6. The Epistle. 



THE WESLEY SUNDAY SERVICE 24s 

7. The Gospel. The Congregation standing. 

8. The Sermon. 

9. Offertory Sentence: Alms collected and brought to the 

Minister to place on the table. 

10. Prayer for Christ's Church Militant. 

11. Invitation. All standing. 

12. General Confession. 

13. Prayer for Absolution. 

14. The Comfortable Words. 

15. Sursum Corda: "Lift up your hearts" — 

16. Prefaces, and "Therefore with Angels" — 

17. Prayer of Humble Access: "We do not presume" — 

18. Prayer of Consecration. 

19. The Communion. 

20. The Lord's Prayer. 

21. Prayer of Oblation: "O Lord and heavenly Father" — 

22. Gloria in Excelsis. 

23. Benediction: "May the peace of God" — 

*Cfje Comfortable Wotte 

Hear what comfortable words our Saviour Christ saith. 
unto all that truly turn to him: 

QOME unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and 
w I will give you rest. (St. Matt. 11. 28.) 

God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten 
Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but 
have everlasting life. (St. John 3. 16.) 

Hear also what St. Paul saith : 

This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, 
That Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. 
(1 Tim. 1. 15.) 

Hear also what St. John saith : 

If any man sin, we have an Advocate with the Father, 
Jesus Christ the righteous: and he is the Propitiation for 
our sins. (1 John 2. 1, 2.) 

The Sursum Corda. 
T IFT up your hearts. 

Answer. We lift them up unto the Lord. 
Minister. Let us give thanks unto our Lord God. 
Answer. It is meet and right so to do. 

* Said in Mr. Wesley's Order for Communion, after the first 
Collect following the General Confession. 



2 4 6 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

proper prefaces' 

for Certain Days to be said after "It is very meet" — and before 
"Therefore with Angels" — In the Order of Holy Communion. 

Upon Christmas Day. 

gECAUSE thou didst give Jesus Christ, thine only Son, 
to be born as at this time for us; who, by the operation 
of the Holy Ghost, was made very man, and that without 
spot of sin, to make us clean from all sin. Therefore with 
Angels, etc. 

Upon Easter Day. 

RUT chiefly we are bound to praise thee for the glorious 
Resurrection of thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord: for he is 
the very Paschal Lamb, which was offered for us, and hath 
taken away the sin of the world; who by his death hath 
destroyed death, and by his rising to life again hath restored 
to us everlasting life. Therefore with Angels, etc. 

Upon Ascension Day. 

"HPHROUGH thy most dearly beloved Son, Jesus Christ our 
Lord; who, after his most glorious Resurrection, mani- 
festly appeared to all his Apostles, and in their sight 
ascended up into heaven, to prepare a place for us; that 
where he is, thither we might also ascend, and reign with 
him in glory. Therefore with Angels, etc. 

Upon Whitsunday. 

^HROUGH Jesus Christ our Lord; according to whose 
most true promise, the Holy Ghost came down as at this 
time, from heaven, with a sudden great sound, as it had 
been a mighty wind, in the likeness of fiery tongues, light- 
ing upon the Apostles, to teach them, and to lead them into 
all truth; giving them both the gift of divers languages, 
and also boldness with fervent zeal, constantly to preach 
the Gospel unto all nations; whereby we have been brought 
out of darkness and error, into the clear light and true 
knowledge of thee, and of thy Son Jesus Christ. Therefore 
with Angels, etc. 

Upon the Feast of Trinity only, may be said, 

"\A7HO art one God, one Lord; not one only Person, but 
three Persons in one Substance. For that which we 
believe of the glory of the Father, the same we believe of 
the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, without any inequality. 
Therefore with Angels, etc. 



THE COMMANDMENTS AND RESPONSES 1 

H This Order may be used as a separate Service: or it may be said 
at the opening of Morning Service; in which case it may be pre- 
ceded by a suitable Hymn. It is suggested as an appropriate 
service preceding the holy Communion. See ResponseSj with 
music, Hymnal Number 738. 

% Let all stand while the Minister reads the Sentences, the People 
answering him. 

Minister. Blessed are the undefiled in the way: who walk 

in the law of the Lord. 
Answer. Order my steps in Thy Word: and let not any 

iniquity have dominion over me. 
Minister. Blessed are they that keep His testimonies: and 

that seek Him with the whole heart. 
Answer. With my whole heart have I sought Thee: O let 

me not wander from Thy commandments. 

If Then shall the Minister say, 

Let us pray. 

H Let the People reverently bow down while he leads them in 

The Invocation. 

A LMIGHTY God, unto whom all hearts are open, all 
"^ desires known, and from whom no secrets are hid; 
Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of Thy 
Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love Thee, and worthily 
magnify Thy holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen. 

r Then the Minister shall read The Ten Commandments, and the 
People, still bowing down, shall, after _ every Commandment, 
ask God's mercy for their transgressions in time past, and grace 
to keep the Law in time to come. 

GOD spake all these words, saying, 

I am the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of 
the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. 

Thou shalt have no other gods before Me. 

Lord, have mercy upon lis, and incline our hearts to keep 
this law. 

Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any 

iFrom the Book of Common Worship — Presbyterian Church. 
247 



248 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 



f 1C in 



likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in 
the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: 
thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: 
for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the 
iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third 
and fourth generation of them that hate Me; and showing 
mercy unto thousands of them that love Me, and keep My 
commandments. 

Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep 
this law. 

Thou shalt not take the Name of the Lord thy God in 
vain: for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh 
His Name in vain. 

Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep 
this law. 

Remember the Sabbath-day, to keep it holy. Six days 
shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: but the seventh 
day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God; in it thou shalt 
not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy 
man-servant; nor thy maid-servant, nor thy cattle, nor thy 
stranger that is within thy gates: for in six days the Lord 
made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, 
and rested the seventh day; wherefore the Lord blessed 
the Sabbath-day, and hallowed it. 

Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep 
this law. 

Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may 
be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee. 

Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep 
this law. 

Thou shalt not kill. 

Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep 
this law. 

Thou shalt not commit adultery. 

Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep 
this law. 

Thou shalt not steal. 

Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep 
this law. 

Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. 

Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep 
this law. 

Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt 
not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his man-servant, nor 
his maid-servant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that 
is thy neighbour's. 

Lord, have mercy upon us, and write all these Thy laws in 
our hearts, we beseech Thee. 



COMMANDMENTS AND RESPONSES 249 

TT Then the Minister shall say, 

Hear also what our Lord Jesus Christ saith: 
Thou shait love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, 
and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the 
first and great commandment. And the second is like 
unto it; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On 
these two commandments hang all the Law and the 
Prophets. 

\ After a short pause let the Minister continue in Prayer, using, if 
he will, the following, or other fitting words. 

TA7E confess to Thee, Almighty God, Father, Son, and 
Holy Ghost, that we have grievously sinned in 
thought, word, and deed. Make us truly contrite. t Fill us 
with holy fear, and give us grace to amend our lives ac- 
cording to Thy Word, for the glory of Thy holy Name; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY God, our heavenly Father, who of His great 
mercy hath promised forgiveness of sins to all them 
that with hearty repentance and true faith turn to Him; 
Have mercy upon you; pardon and deliver you from all 
your sins; confirm and strengthen you in all goodness; and 
bring you to everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

MOW unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly 
above all that we ask or think, according to the power 
that worketh in us; unto Him be glory and dominion in 
the Church by Christ Jesus, throughout all ages, world 
without end. Amen. 



THE RITUAL 

OF THE 

METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH 

THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM 

[Let every adult person, and the parents of every child to be 
baptized, have the choice of either sprinkling, pouring, or immersion.] 

[We will on no account whatever make a charge for administering 
Baptism.] , 

Order for the Administration of Baptism to Infants 

The Minister, coming to the Font, which is to be filled with 
pure Water, shall use the following: 

Dearly Beloved, forasmuch as God in his great mercy hath 
entered into covenant relation with man, wherein he hath 
included children as partakers of its gracious benefits ; and 
our Lord Jesus Christ saith : Suffer the little children to 
come unto me ; forbid them not : for to such belongeth the 
kingdom of God ; I beseech you to call upon God the Father, 
through our Lord Jesus Christ, that having, of his bounteous 
mercy, redeemed this child by the blood of his Son, he will 

Copyright, 191 6, by The Methodist Book Concern. 

The Scripture quotations in this Ritual, excepting the Psalms, 
the Lord's Praj^er, and forms of benediction, are from the American 
Standard Edition of the Revised Bible. Copyrighted, 1901, by 
Thomas Nelson & Sons. 

NOTE. — We call upon all our ministers to make faithful use of 
the forms and orders here provided, and without other deviation 
than that here indicated as permitted. 

We urge all pastors to encourage and train their congregations 
to participate audibly in those portions of the service provided for 
this purpose, particularly in the celebration of the Lord's Supper. 
The portions to be used by the congregation are specially indicated 
by black face type. 

250 



THE RITUAL— BAPTISM 251 

grant that he, being baptized with water, may also be baptized 
with the Holy spirit, be received into Christ's holy Church, 
and become a lively Member of the same. 

Then shall the Minister say : 

Let us pray. 

Almighty and everlasting God, who by thy well-beloved 
Son Jesus Christ gavest commandment to go into all the 
world and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them 
into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy 
Spirit ; we beseech thee, that of thine infinite mercy thou wilt 
look upon this child: that he, being saved by thy grace, and 
received into Christ's holy Church, may be steadfast in faith, 
joyful through hope, and rooted in love, and may so over- 
come all evil that finally he may reign with thee, world with- 
out end, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Then shall the Minister address the Parents or other Sponsors 
as followeth : 

Dearly Beloved, forasmuch as this child is now presented 
by you for Christian Baptism, and is thus consecrated to 
God and to his Church, it is your part and duty to see that 
he be taught, as soon as he shall be able to learn, the nature 
and end of this Holy Sacrament ; that he shall read the Holy 
Scriptures and learn the Lord's Prayer, the Ten Command- 
ments, the Apostles' Creed and the Catechism ; and that he 
be instructed in the principles of our Holy Faith and the 
nature of the Christian life. And ye shall call upon him to 
give reverent attendance upon the appointed means of grace, 
such as the ministry of the Word, and the public and private 
worship of God ; and that in every way, by precept and ex- 
ample, ye shall seek to lead him into the love of God and the 
service of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

Do you therefore solemnly engage to fulfill these duties, 
so far as in you lies, the Lord being your helper? 

Answer. We do. 

Then shall the People stand up, and the Minister shall say : 

Hear the words of the Gospel, written by St. Mark. [Chap. 
10. 13-16.] 

And they were bringing unto him little children, that he 
should touch them : and the disciples rebuked them. But 
when Jesus saw it, he was moved with indignation, and said 
unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me ; forbid 
them not : for to such belongeth the kingdom of God. Verily 



252 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of 
God as a little child, he shall in no wise enter therein. And 
he took them in his arms, and blessed them, laying his hands 
upon them. 

Then the Minister may take the Child in his arms, and say 
to the Parents or other Sponsors: 

What name shall be given to this child? 

And then, naming it after them, he shall baptise it, saying: 

N., I baptize thee in the name of the Father, and of the 
Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 

Then shall the Minister offer the following Prayer, the 
People kneeling : 

God of infinite mercy, be pleased to grant unto this child 
an understanding mind and a sanctified heart. May thy 
providence lead him through the dangers, temptations, and 
ignorance of his youth, that he may never run into folly, nor 
into the evils of an unbridled appetite. We pray thee so to 
order the course of his life that, by good education, by holy 
examples, and by thy restraining and renewing grace,' he 
may be led to serve thee faithfully all his days, through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Almighty and Most Merciful Father, grant unto these, 
thy servants, the parents [sponsors] of this child, thy Holy 
Spirit, that they may command their household to keep the 
way of the Lord ; that their whole family may be united to 
our Lord Jesus Christ in the bonds of faith, obedience, and 
charity ; and that they all, being in this life thy holy children, 
may be admitted into the Church of the first born in heaven, 
through the merits of thy Son, our Saviour and Redeemer. 
Amen. 

Then may the Minister offer extemporary Prayer. 

Then shall be said by the Minister and People all kneeling: 

The Lord's Prayer. 

Order for the Administration of Baptism to such as 
are of Riper Years 

The Minister, addressing the Congregation, shall say : * 

Dearly Beloved, forasmuch as all men have sinned and 



THE RITUAL— BAPTISM 253 

come short of the glory of God, and our Saviour Christ saith 
except a man be born anew he cannot see the kingdom of 
God, and also gave commandment saying : Go ye, therefore, 
and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them into the 
name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit : 
I beseech you to call upon God the Father, through our Lord 
Jesus Christ, that of his bounteous goodness he will grant to 
these persons that which by nature they cannot have ; that 
they, being baptized with water, may also be baptized with 
the Holy Spirit, and, being received into Christ's holy Church, 
may continue lively Members of the same. 

Then shall the Minister say: 

Let us pray. 

Almighty and Everliving God, the aid of all that need, the 
helper of all that flee to thee for succor, the life of them 
that believe, and the resurrection of the dead : we call upon 
thee for these persons, that they, coming to thy Holy Bap- 
tism, may also be filled with the Holy Spirit. Receive them, 
O Lord, as thou hast promised by thy well-beloved Son, say- 
ing, Ask, and ye shall receive ; seek, and ye shall find ; knock, 
and it shall be opened unto you. So give now unto us that 
ask ; let us that seek, find ; open the gate unto us that knock ; 
that these persons may enjoy the everlasting benediction of 
thy heavenly washing, and may come to the eternal kingdom 
which thou hast promised, by Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Then may the Minister read the following Lesson: 

Acts 2. 38-42 or John 3. 1-8. 

Then shall the Minister speak to the Persons to be baptized 
on this wise : 

Well Beloved, who have come hither desiring to receive 
Holy Baptism, you have heard how the Congregation hath 
prayed that our Lord Jesus Christ would vouchsafe to receive 
you, to bless you, and to give you the kingdom of heaven, 
and everlasting life. And our Lord Jesus Christ hath prom- 
ised in his hofy word to grant all those things that we have 
prayed for : which promise he for his part will most surely 
keep and perform. 

Wherefore, after this promise made by Christ, you must 
also faithfully, for your part, promise in the presence of this 
whole Congregation, that you will renounce the devil and 
all his works, and. constantly believe God's Holy Word, and 
obediently keep his commandments. 



254 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

The Baptismal Covenant 



ons to 



Then shall the Minister demand of each of the Person 

be baptised : 

Dost thou renounce the devil and all his works, the vain 

pomp and glory of the world, with all covetous desires of 

the same, and the carnal desires of the flesh, so that thou 
wilt not follow nor be led by them? 

Answer. I renounce them all. 

Dost thou believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of 
heaven and earth : 

And in Jesus Christ, his only begotten Son our Lord ; and 
that he was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin 
Mary ; that • he suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, 
dead, and buried ; that he rose the third day ; that he ascended 
into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father 
Almighty ; and from thence shall come again at the end of 
the world, to judge the quick and the dead? 

And dost thou believe in the Holy Ghost ; the holy catholic 1 
Church, the communion of saints ; the forgiveness of sins ; 
the resurrection of the body ; and everlasting life after death ? 

Answer. All this I steadfastly believe. 

Wilt thou be baptized in this faith? 

Answer. Such is my desire. 

Wilt thou then obediently keep God's holy will and com- 
mandments, and walk in the same all the days of thy life? 

Answer. I will endeavor so to do, God being my helper. 

Then shall the Minister say: 

O Merciful God, grant that all sinful affections may die in 
these persons, and that all things belonging to the Spirit may 
live and grow in them. Amen. 

Grant that they, being here dedicated to thee in holy 
baptism, may also be endued with heavenly virtues, and ever- 
lastingly rewarded through thy mercy, O blessed Lord God, 
who dost live, and govern all things, world without end. 
Amen. 

Almighty, Everliving God, regard, we beseech thee, our 






1 The one universal Church of Christ. 



THE RITUAL— BAPTISM 255 

supplications ; and grant that the persons now to be baptized 
may receive the fullness of thy grace, and ever remain in 
the number of thy faithful and beloved children, through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen, 

Then the Minister, asking the name of each Person, shall 
baptize him, saying: 

N.j ... I baptize thee in the name of the Father, and 
of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 

Then shall be said by the Minister and people, all kneeling: 

The Lord's Prayer. 

Then may the Minister conclude with extemporary Prayer* 



THE RITUAL— RECEPTION OF MEMBERS 






Form for Receiving Persons into the Church as Pre- 
paratory Members 



[The use of this form is discretionary with the minister.] 

Those who are to be received into the Church as Preparatory 
Members may be called forward by name, and the Minister, 
addressing the Congregation, shall say : 

Dearly Beloved Brethren, that none may be admitted 
liastily into the Church, we receive persons who seek fellow- 
ship with us on profession of faith into a preparatory mem- 
bership ; in which proof may be made, both to themselves 
and to the Church, of the sincerity and depth of their con- 
victions and of the strength of their purpose to lead a new 
life. 

The persons here present desire to be so admitted. You 
will hear their answers to the questions put to them, and if 
you make no objection they will be received. 

It is needful, however, that you be reminded of your own 
responsibility, as having previously entered this holy fellow- 
ship and now representing the Church into which they seek 
admission. Inasmuch as they should find in you holy ex- 
amples of life and loving help in the true serving of their 
Lord and ours, I beseech you so to order your own lives that 
these new disciples may take no detriment from you, but 
that it may ever be to them a cause for thanksgiving to God 
that they were led into this fellowship. 

Then, addressing the Persons seeking Admission as Prepara- 
tory Members, the Minister shall say: 

Dearly Beloved, you have, by the grace of God, made your 
decision to follow Christ and to serve him. Your confidence 
in so doing is not to be based on any notion of fitness or 
worthiness in yourselves, but on the gracious promise of God, 
through our Lord Jesus Christ, who loved us and gave him- 
self for us. 

256 



RECEPTION OF MEMBERS 257 

That the Church may know your purpose, you will answer 
the following questions : 

Have you an earnest desire to be saved from your sins ? 

Answer. I have. 

Will you guard against all things contrary to the teaching 
of God's Word, and endeavor to lead a holy life, following 
the commandments of God? 

Answer. I will endeavor so to do. 

Will you give reverent attendance upon the appointed 
means of grace in the ministry of the Word, and in the 
private and public worship of God? 

Answer. With the help of God, I will. 

The Minister shall then welcome the Candidates as Pre- 
paratory Members, and may assign them to classes. 

Then may the Minister offer extemporary Prayer. 

Form for Receiving Persons into the Church from 
Preparatory Membership 

On the day appointed, all that are to be received into the 
Church shall be called forward, and the Minister, address- 
ing the Congregation, shall say : 

Dearly Beloved, the Scriptures teach us that the Church 
is the household of God, the body of which Christ is the 
head ; and that it is the design of the gospel to bring together 
in one all who are in Christ. The end of this fellowship is 
the salvation of men and the establishment of the kingdom of 
God upon earth. As helps thereto the Church is charged 
with the maintenance of sound doctrine and of the ordinances 
of Christian worship, and with the exercise of that power 
of godly admonition and discipline which Christ has com- 
mitted to her for the promotion of holiness. The duties of 
those united in this fellowship are to continue steadfast in 
the faith and practice of the gospel ; to promote the peace 
and unity of the Church ; to labor for the spread of love and 
righteousness ; and by word and deed to bring others into the 
fold of Jesus Christ. 

Into this holy fellowship the persons before you, who have 
already received the sacrament of Baptism and have been 
under instruction in the doctrines of Holy Scripture as taught 
by the Methodist Episcopal Church, come seeking admission. 
We now propose, in the fear of God, to question them as to 



258 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

their faith and purposes, that you may know that they are 
proper persons to be admitted into the Church. 

Then, addressing the Persons seeking Admission, the Minis- 
ter shall say: 

Dearly Beloved, you are come hither seeking the great 
privilege of union with the Church our Saviour has purchased 
with his own blood. We rejoice in the grace of God vouch- 
safed unto you in that he has called you to be his followers, 
and that thus far you ha\e run well. You have heard how 
solemn are the duties of membership in Christ's Church ; 
and before you are fully admitted thereto, it is proper that 
you do here publicly renew your vows, confess your faith, 
and declare your purpose, by answering the following ques- 
tions : 

Do you here, in the presence of God and of this Congrega- 
tion, renew the solemn promise contained in the Baptismal 
Covenant, ratifying and confirming the same, and acknowl- 
edging yourselves bound faithfully to observe and keep that 
Covenant? 

Answer. I do. 

Do you receive Jesus Christ as your Saviour, and do you 
confess him as your Lord and Master? 

Answer. I do. 

Do you believe in the Doctrines of the Holy Scriptures as 
set forth in the Articles of Religion of the Methodist Episco- 
pal Church? 

Answer. I do. 

Will you contribute of your earthly substance, according to 
your ability, to the support of the Gospel and the various 
benevolent enterprises of the Church ? 

Answer. I will. 

Will you cheerfully be governed by the Rules of the Meth- 
odist Episcopal Church, hold sacred the Ordinances of God, 
and endeavor, as much as in you lies, to promote the welfare 
of your brethren and the advancement of the Redeemer's 
kingdom? 

Answer. I will. 

Then, the Candidates kneeling, the . Minister shall say: 

Defend, O Lord, these thy servants with thy heavenly 
grace ; that they may continue thine forever ; and daily in- 



RECEPTION OF MEMBERS 259 

crease in thy Holy Spirit, more and more, until they come 
unto thy everlasting kingdom. Amen. 

Then the Minister, extending the right hand of fellowship, 
shall say to the Candidates : 

We welcome you to the communion of the Church of God ; 
and, in testimony of our Christian affection and the cordiality 
with which we receive you, I hereby extend to you the* right 
hand of fellowship : and may God grant that you may be a 
faithful and useful Member of the Church militant till you 
are called to the fellowship of the Church triumphant, which 
is "without fault before the throne of God." 

Form for Receiving Children as Members of the 
Church 

We regard all children who have been baptized as standing in 
covenant relation to God, and as preparatory members under the 
special care and supervision of the Church. Whenever baptized chil- 
dren shall understand the obligations of religion, and shall give 
evidence of piety, they may be admitted into full membership in the 
Church. See Discipline, paragraphs 49 to 54.- 

At the appointed time, the Minister shall read the names of 
the children to be received; and, after they have come 
forward, he shall say to the Congregation : 

Dearly Beloved, these persons here present before you are 
baptized children of the Church, who, having arrived at the 
years of discretion, desire now to confirm the vows of their 
baptism and to enter upon the active duties and the full 
privileges of membership in the Church of Christ. They have 
been duly instructed as to the truths of the Christian faith, 
and have been examined as to their fitness for such member- 
ship. Before they assume the required vows, let us invoke 
on their behalf the gracious blessing of God our Father, and 
the # continued presence of the Holy Spirit who hath inclined 
their hearts to this end. 

Then shall the Minister say: 

Let us pray. 

Almighty and everliving God, who hast appointed unto 
children a place in thy kingdom, and through thy well be- 
loved Son didst give unto them thy blessing, we beseech thee 
that thou wilt visit with thy favor the homes of this congre- 
gation, and fill the hearts of all parents with the fear of God 
and the spirit of wisdom and love. W^e pray that thy church 
may be faithful in the nurture of those committed to her 
care. Let thy blessing rest upon these, thy children, whom 



260 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

thou hast graciously inclined to thy service and to the fel- 
lowship of thy people. We beseech thee, that thou wilt so 
further them by thy grace and direct them by thy Spirit, that 
they may^ be faithful servants in thy kingdom on earth, and 
finally reign with thee in thy kingdom above, through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

m Then shall the Minister say : 

Hear the words of the Gospel as written by St. Luke 
(Chap 2. 40-52). 

Then shall the Minister address the Persons seeking Admis- 
sion as foil oil's : 

Dearly Beloved, we rejoice in the grace of God in that he 
has brought you to this place, and by his Spirit has con- 
firmed you in your purpose to serve him and to live in the 
fellowship of the Church of Christ. It is needful now that 
you should declare your faith and purpose in the presence 
of this congregation by answering the following questions : 

Do you receive Jesus Christ as your Saviour, and do you 
confess him as your Lord and Master ? 

Answer. I do. 

Do you receive and profess the Christian Faith as con- 
tained in the New Testament of our Lord Jesus Christ? 

Answer. I do. 

Will you be loyal to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and 
uphold it by your prayer, your presence, your gifts, and your 
service ? 

Answer. I will. 

Then, the Candidates kneeling, the Minister shall say: 

Defend, O Lord, these thy Children with thy heavenly 
grace, that they may continue thine forever, and daily in- 
crease in thy Holy Spirit more and more, until they come 
unto thy everlasting kingdom. Amen. 

Then the Minister, extending the right hand of fellowship, 
shall say to the Candidates : 

We welcome you to the communion of the Church of God ; 
and, in testimony of our Christian affection and the cordiality 
with which we receive you, I hereby extend to you the right 
hand of fellowship : and may God grant that you may be a 
faithful and useful Member of the Church militant till you 
are called to the fellowship of the Church triumphant, which 
is "without fault before the throne of God." 



THE SACRAMENT OF THE LORD'S SUPPER, 
OR THE HOLY COMMUNION 

[Let the pure, unfermented juice of the grape be used in adminis- 
tering the Lord's Supper.] 

[Let persons who have scruples concerning the receiving of the 
Sacrament of the Lord's Supper kneeling be permitted to receive it 
either standing or sitting.] 1 



Order for the Administration of the Lord's Supper 



[If the Minister so desire, he may here use the Ten Command- 
ments, with responses by the people, as contained in the Hymnal, 
Number 738.] 

The Minister shall say one or more of these Sentences, dur- 
ing the reading of which the Persons appointed for that 
purpose shall receive the Offering for the Poor : 

Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon the earth, where 
moth and rust consume, and where thieves break through 
and steal : but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven ; 
w r here neither moth nor rust doth consume, and where thieves 
do not break through nor steal : for where thy treasure is, 
there will thy heart be also. [Matt. 6. 19-21.] 

All things therefore whatsoever ye would that men should 
do unto you, even so do ye also unto them : for this is the 
law and the prophets. [Matt. 7. 12.] 

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter 
into the kingdom of heaven ; but he that doeth the will of 
my Father who is in heaven. [Matt. 7. 21.] 

Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord, Behold, Lord, the 
half of my goods I give to the poor ; and if I have wrong- 
fully exacted aught of any man, I restore fourfold. [Luke 
19. 8.] 

He that soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly ; and 
he that soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Let 
each man do according as he hath purposed in his heart : 
not grudgingly, or of necessity : for God loveth a cheerful 
giver. [2 Cor. 9. 6, 7.] 

1 See also Suggested Form of Service page 244. 
261 



262 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

So then, as we have opportunity, let us work that which 
is good toward all men, and especially toward them that are 
of the household of the faith. [Gal. 6. ioj 

Godliness with contentment is great gain : for we brought 
nothing into the world, for neither can we carry anything 
out. [i Tim. 6. 6, 7.] 

Charge them that are rich in this present world, that they 
b>e not highminded, nor have their hope set on the uncertainty 
of riches, but on God, who giveth us richly all things to en- 
joy ; that they do good, that they be rich in good works, that 
they be ready to distribute, willing to communicate ; laying 
up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time 
to come, that they may lay hold on the life which is life 
indeed. [1 Tim. 6. 17-19.] 

For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and the 
love which ye showed toward his name, in that ye ministered 
tmto the saints, and still do minister. [Heb. 6. 10.] 

To do good and to communicate forget not : for with such 
sacrifices God is well pleased. [Heb. 13. 16.] 

Whoso hath the world's goods, and beholdeth his brother in 
need, and shutteth up his compassion from him, how doth 
the love of God abide in him? [1 John 3. 17.] 

He that hath pity upon the poorlendeth unto Jehovah, And 
his good deed will he pay him again. [Prov. 19. 17.] 

Blessed is he that considereth the poor : the Lord will de- 
liver him in time of trouble. [Psa. 41. 1.] 

Thou shalt surely open thy hand unto thy brother, to thy 
needy, and to thy poor, in thy land. [Deut. 15. 11.] 

After which the Minister shall give the following Invitation, 
the People standing: 

If any man sin, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus 
Christ the righteous : and he is the propitiation for our sins ; 
and not for ours only, but also for the whole world. 

Wherefore ye that do truly and earnestly repent of your 
sins, and are in love and charity with your neighbors, and 
intend to lead a new life, following the commandments of 
God, and walking from henceforth in his holy ways, draw 
near with faith, and take this holy Sacrament to your com- 
fort; and, devoutly kneeling, make your humble confession 
to Almighty God. 

Then shall this general Confession be made by the Minister 
and all those who are minded to receive the Holy Com- 
munion, he and all the People devoutly kneeling and say- 
ing : 

Almighty God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Maker 
of all things, Judge of all men, we acknowledge and bewail 



THE HOLY COMMUNION 263 

our manifold sins and wickedness, which we from time to 
time most grievously have committed, by thought, word, 
and deed, against thy Divine Majesty, provoking most justly 
thy wrath and indignation against us. We do earnestly 
repent, and are heartily sorry for these our misdoings; 
the remembrance of them is grievous unto us. Have mercy 
upon us, have mercy upon us, most merciful Father; for 
thy Son, our Lord Jesus Christ's sake, forgive us all that 
is past; and grant that we may ever hereafter serve and 
please thee in newness of lift, to the honor and glory of 
thy name, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Then shall the Minister say : 

Almighty God, our heavenly Father, who of thy great 
mercy hast promised forgiveness of sins to all them that with 
hearty repentance and true faith turn unto thee, have mercy 
upon us ; pardon and deliver us from all our sins ; confirm 
and strengthen us in all goodness ; and bring us to everlast- 
ing life, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

This Collect shall then be said by the Minister and those in- 
tending to receive the Holy Communion : 

Almighty God, unto whom all hearts are open, all desires 
known, and from whom no secrets are hid, cleanse the 
thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of thy Holy 
Spirit, that we may perfectly love thee, and worthily 
magnify thy holy name, through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

Then shall the Minister say : 

We do not presume to come to this thy table, O merciful 
Lord, trusting in our own righteousness, but in thy manifold 
and great mercies. We are not worthy so much as to gather 
up the crumbs under thy table. But thou art the same Lord, 
whose property is always to have mercy. Grant us, there- 
fore, gracious Lord, so to eat the flesh of thy dear Son Jesus 
Christ, and to drink his blood, that we may live and grow 
thereby ; and that, being washed through his most precious 
blood, we may evermore dwell in him, and he in us. Amen. 

Then the Minister shall offer the Prayer of Consecration, 
as followeth : 

Almighty God, our heavenly Father, who of thy tender 
mercy didst give thine only Son Jesus Christ to suffer death 
upon the cross for our redemption ; who made there, by his 
oblation of himself once offered, a full, perfect, and sufficient 
sacrifice for the sins of the whole world ; and did institute, 
and in his holy Gospel command us to continue, a perpetual 



264 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

memory of his precious death until his coming again : hear 
us, O merciful Father, we most humbly beseech thee, and 
grant that we, receiving these thy creatures of bread and 
wine, according to thy Son our Saviour Jesus Christ's holy 
institution, ir remembrance of his death and 
passion, may be partakers of his most blessed C 1 ) Here the 
body and blood, who, in the same night that falTlhV blat% 
he was betrayed, took bread 0) ; and when Q x Bread in his 
he had given thanks, he broke it, and gave hand. 
it to his disciples, saying, r £ake, eat ; this^ 
is my body which is given for you ; do this in remembrance 
of me. 

Likewise after supper he took ( 2 ) the cup ; and when he 
C 2 ) Here he ^ a( ^ given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, 
may take the cup Drink ye all of this ; for this is my blood 
in his hand. of the New Testament, which is shed for you, 

and for many, for the remission of sins ; 
do this, as oft as ye shall drink it, in remembrance of me. 
Amen. 

Then shall the Minister receive the Communion in both kinds, 
and proceed to deliver the same to the other Ministers, if 
any be present; after which he shall say: 

It is very meet, right, and our bounden duty that we should 
at all times and in all places give thanks unto thee, O Lord, 
Holy Father, Almighty, Everlasting God. 

Then shall be said or sung by all the people : 

[The Hymnal, 741.] 

Therefore with angels and archangels, and with all the 
company of heaven, we laud and magnify thy glorious 
name, evermore praising thee, and saying, Holy, Holy, Holy, 
Lord God of Hosts, heaven and earth are full of thy glory. 
Glory be to thee, O Lord most high! Amen. 

The Minister shall then proceed to administer the Communion 
to the People in order, kneeling, into their uncovered 
hands; and when he deliver eth the Bread, he shall say: 

The body of our Lord Jesus Christ, which was given for 
thee, preserve thy soul and body unto everlasting life. Take 
and eat this in remembrance that Christ died for thee; and 
feed on him in thy heart by faith, with thanksgiving. 

And the Minister that delivereth the Cup shall say: 

The blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, which was shed for 
thee, preserve thy soul and body unto everlasting life. Drink 



THE HOLY COMMUNION 265 

this in remembrance that Christ's blood was shed for thee, 
and be thankful, 

[If the Consecrated bread or wine shall be all spent before all 
have communed, the Elder may Consecrate more by repeating the 
Prayer of Consecration.] 

[When all have communed, the Minister shall return to the Lord's 
table and place upon it what remaineth of the Consecrated elements, 
covering the same with a fair linen cloth.] 

Then shall the Elder say the Lord's Prayer; the People 
kneeling, and repeating after him every petition. 

After which the Minister and People shall say: 

O Lord our heavenly Father, we thy humble servants 
desire thy Fatherly goodness mercifully to accept this our 
sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving; most humbly beseech- 
ing thee to grant, that, by the merits and death of thy Son 
Jesus Christ, and through faith in his blood, we and thy 
whole Church may obtain forgiveness of our sins, and all 
other benefits of his passion. And here we offer and 
present unto thee, O Lord, ourselves, our souls and bodies, 
to be a reasonable, holy, and lively sacrifice unto thee; 
humbly beseeching thee that all we who are partakers of 
this Holy Communion may be filled with thy grace and 
heavenly benediction. And although we be unworthy, 
through our manifold sins, to offer unto thee any sacrifice, 
yet we beseech thee to accept this our bounden duty and 
service; not weighing our merits, but pardoning our offenses, 
through Jesus Christ our Lord; by whom, and with whom, 
in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all honor and glory be 
unto thee, O Father Almighty, world without end. Amen. 

Then shall be said or sung by all the People standing: 
[The Hymnal, 742.] 

Glory be to God on high, and on earth peace, good will 
toward men! We praise thee, we bless thee, we worship 
thee, we glorify thee, we give thanks to thee for thy great 
glory, O Lord God, heavenly King, God the Father Al- 
mighty! 

O Lord, the only begotten Son Jesus Christ: O Lord 
God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father, that takest away the 
sins of the world, have mercy upon us. Thou that takest 
away the sins of the world, have mercy upon us. Thou 
that takest away the sins of the world, receive our prayer. 
Thou that sittest at the right hand of God the Father, have 
mercy upon us. For thou only art holy; thou only art the 
Lord; thou only, O Christ, with the Holy Ghost, art most 
high in the glory of God the Father. Amen. 



266 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

Then the Minister shall let the People depart with this 
'Blessing: 

The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, keep 
your hearts and minds in^ the knowledge and love of God, 
and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord : and the blessing of 
God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, 
be among you, and remain with you always. Amen. 

[The Minister is expected to use the full form, but, if straitened 
for time in the usual administration of the Holy Communion, he 
may omit any part of the service, except the Invitation, the Confes- 
sion, and the Prayer of Consecration; and in its administration to 
the sick he may omit any part of the service except the Confession, 
the Prayer of Consecration, and the usual sentences in delivering the 
Bread and Wine, closing with the Lord's Prayer, extemporary sup- 
ination, and the Benediction.] 



MATRIMONY 



Form for the Solemnization of Matrimony 



[The parts in brackets throughout may be used or not at 
discretion.] 

At the time appointed, the persons to be married — having 
been qualified according to law — standing together, the 
Man on the right hand and the Woman on the left, the 
Minister shall say: 

Dearly Beloved, we are gathered together here in the sight 
of God, and in the presence of these witnesses, to join to- 
gether this man and this woman in holy Matrimony ; which 
is an honorable estate, instituted of God in the time of man's 
innocency, signifying unto us the mystical union that exists 
between Christ and his Church ; which holy estate Christ 
adorned and beautified with his presence, and first miracle 
that he wrought, in Cana of Galilee ; and therefore is not by 
any to be entered into unadvisedly, but reverently, discreetly, 
and in the fear of God. 

Into-which holy estate these two persons present come now 
to be joined. Therefore if any can show just cause why 
they may not lawfully be joined together, let him now speak, 
or else hereafter forever hold his peace. 

[And also speaking unto the Persons that are to be married, 
the Minister shall say : 

I require and charge you both, that if either of you know 
any impediment why ye may not be lawfully joined together 
in matrimony, ye do now confess it : for be ye well assured, 
that so many as are married otherwise than God's Word doth 
allow, are not joined together by God, neither is their 
matrimony lawful.] 

// no impediment be alleged, then shall the Minister say unto 
the Man, using his given name: 

M., wilt thou have this woman to be thy wedded wife, to 
live together after God's ordinance in the holy estate of 
267 



268 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

matrimony? Wilt thou love her, comfort her, honor and 
keep her, in sickness and in health ; ancT forsaking all other, 
keep thee only unto her, so long as ye both shall live? 

The Man shall answer: 

I will. 

Then shall the Minister say unto the Woman, using her given 
name : 

N., wilt thou have this man to be thy wedded husband, to 
live together after God's ordinance in the holy estate of matri- 
mony ? Wilt thou love him, comfort him, honor and keep 
him, in sickness and in health ; and forsaking all other, keep 
thee only unto him, so long as ye both shall live? 

The Woman shall answer: 

I will. 

[Then shall the Minister say : 

Who giveth this Woman to be married to this Man?] 

[Answer: I do.] 

[Then the Minister shall cause the Man with his right hand 
to take the Woman by her right hand, and, using the given 
names, to say after him as followeth : 

I, M., take thee, N., to be my wedded wife, to have and 
to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for 
richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to 
cherish, till death us do part, according to God's holy ordi- 
nance ; and thereto I plight thee my faith. 

Then shall they loose their hands, and the Woman, with her 
right hand taking the Man by his right hand, shall likewise 
say after the Minister: 

I, N., take thee, M., to be my wedded husband, to have and 
to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for 
richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and 
to cherish, till death us do part, according to God's holy 
ordinance ; and thereto I plight thee my faith.] 

[// the parties desire it, the Man shall here hand a Ring 
to the Minister, who shall return it to him, and direct him 
to place it on the third linger of the Woman's left hand. 
And the Man shall say to the Woman, repeating after the 

Minister : 

With this ring I thee wed, and with my worldly goods I 






MATRIMONY 269 

thee endow, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and 
of the Holy Spirit. Amen.] 

Then shall the Minister pray thus: 

O Eternal God, Creator and Preserver of all mankind, 
Giver of all spiritual grace, the Author of everlasting life : 
send thy blessing upon these thy servants, this man and this 
woman, whom we bless in thy name ; that they may surely 
perform and keep the vow and covenant between them made, 
and may ever remain in perfect love and peace together, and 
live according to thy laws, through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

Then shall the Minister join their right hands together, and 
say, using the given names: 

Forasmuch as M. and N. have consented together in holy 
wedlock, and have witnessed the same before God and this 
company, and thereto have pledged their faith either to 
other, and have declared the same by joining of hands [and 
by giving and receiving a ring] ; I pronounce that they are 
husband and wife together, in the name of the Father, and 
of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Those whom God hath 
joined together, let not man put asunder. Amen. 

And the Minister shall add this Blessing: 

God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, bless, pre- 
serve, and keep you ; the Lord mercifully with his favor 
look upon you ; and so fill you with all spiritual benediction 
and grace, that ye may so live together in this life that in 
the world to come ye may have life everlasting. Amen. 

Then shall the Minister and the People together repeat the 
Lord's Prayer. 

The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, keep 
your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, 
and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord : and the blessing of 
God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, 
be among you, and remain with you always. Amen, 



BURIAL OF THE DEAD 

[We will on no account whatever make a charge for 
burying the dead.] 



Form for Burial of the Dead 



The Minister, going before the Body, shall say: 

I am the resurrection, and the life : he that believeth on 
me, though he die, yet shall he live ; and whosoever liveth 
and believeth on me shall never die. [John n. 25, 26.] 

For we know that if the earthly house of our tabernacle be 
dissolved, we have a building from God, a house not made 
with hands, eternal, in the heavens. [2 Cor. 5. 1.] 

And I saw no temple therein : for the Lord God the Al- 
mighty, and the Lamb, are the temple thereof. And the city 
hath no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine upon 
it : for the glory of God did lighten it, and the lamp thereof 
is the Lamb. [Rev. 21. 22, 23.] 

In the House or Church may be read one of the following 
Psalms : 

Psalm 23. 

Psalm 90. 1, 2, 4-6, 12, 14, 16, 17. 

Then may follow the reading of the Epistle, as follows: 

1 Corinthians 15. 41-49, 53-58. 

Or this: 
John 14. 1-3, 15-20, 25-27. 

Or this: 
Revelation 7. 9-17. 

At the Grave, when the Body is laid in the Earth, the Minis- 
ter shall say : 

Lord, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my 
days, what it is ; that I may know how frail I am. 

In the midst of life we are in death : of whom may we 
seek for succor, but of thee, O Lord, who for our sins art 
justly displeased? 

270 



BURIAL OF THE DEAD 271 

Yet, O Lord God most holy, O Lord most mighty, deliver 
us not into the bitter pains of eternal death ; but grant us 
everlasting life through Jesus Christ our Saviour and Re- 
deemer. Amen. 

Then, while the Earth may be cast upon the Body by some 
standing by, the Minister shall say : 

Forasmuch as the spirit of the departed hath returned to 
the God who gave it, we therefore commit his body to the 
ground, earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust ; looking 
for the general resurrection in the last day, and the life of 
the world to come, through our Lord Jesus Christ; at whose 
second coming in glorious majesty to judge the world, the 
earth and the sea shall give up their dead ; and the cor- 
ruptible bodies of those who sleep in him shall be changed 
and made like unto his own glorious body ; according to the 
mighty working whereby he is able to subdue all things unto 
himself. 

Then shall be said: 

I heard a voice from heaven saying, Write, Blessed are the 
dead who die in the Lord from henceforth : yea, saith the 
Spirit, that they may rest from their labors ; for their works 
follow with them. 

Then shall the Minister say : 

Lord, have mercy upon us. 

Response Christ, have mercy upon us. 

Lord, have mercy upon us. 

Then the Minister may offer this Prayer:. 

Almighty God, with whom do live the spirits of those who? 
depart hence in the Lord, and with whom the souls; o£ the 
faithful after death are in joy and felicity : we give-, thee 
hearty thanks for the good examples of all those thy servants, 
who, having finished their course in faith, do now rest! from 
their labors. And we beseech thee, that we, with all those 
who are departed in the true faith of thy holy name,, may^ have 
our perfect consummation and bliss, both in body and soul, 
in thy eternal and everlasting glory, through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

The Collect 

O Merciful God, the Father of our Lord Jesusr Christ, wha 
is the resurrection and the life ; in whom whosoever believeth 
shall live, though he die, and whosoever livetJi and. helieveth 



272 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

in him shall not die eternally: we meekly beseech thee, O 
Father, to raise us from the death of sin unto the life of 
righteousness; that when we shall depart this life we may 
rest in him ; and at the general resurrection on the last day 
may be found acceptable in thy sight, and receive that bless- 
ing which thy well-beloved Son shall then pronounce to all 
that love and fear thee, saying, Come, ye blessed children of 
my Father, receive the kingdom prepared for you from the 
beginning of the world. Grant this, we beseech thee, O Merci- 
ful Father, through Jesus Christ our Mediator and Re- 
deemer. Amen. 

Then shall the Minister and the People together repeat the 
Lord's Prayer: 

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christy and the love of God, 
and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you all. 

Amen. 



Form for the Burial of a Child 

The service may begin with a suitable Hymn, after which 
the Minister may offer the following Prayer, saying: 

Let us pray. 

Almighty God our heavenly Father, the refuge of all thy 
saints and the sure defense of all who put their trust in 
thee, lift upon us the light of thy countenance and give us 
peace. We know not thy counsels, O Lord, for thy thoughts 
are not our thoughts, nor thy ways our ways. Thou art in- 
finitely holy, wise, and good, and thou doest all things well. 
Thou dost teach us in thy Holy Word that all things work 
together for good to them that love God, and that our light 
affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far 
more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Comfort, we 
beseech thee, the hearts that sorrow # in the death of this 
child ; grant unto them the strengthening grace of thy Holy 
Spirit, that they and all we who trust thy fatherly goodness 
and care may rejoice in the promise of eternal life; and that 
we may be united again with our loved ones in thy heavenly 
and eternal kingdom, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Then may be read any of the following Scripture passages: 

Mark 10. 13-16 

Psalm 23 

Psalm 103. 13-18 

Revelation 22. 1-5 



DEDICATION OF A CHURCH 273 

At the Grave, where the Body is laid in the Earth, the Min- 
ister shall say : 

Almighty and Most Merciful God our heavenly Father* 
from whom our spirits come and to whom they shall return, 
grant unto all sorrowing hearts the consolation of thy grace. 
Amen. 

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the Father, who didst give thy 
life for our redemption, and who didst promise the Holy 
Spirit, the Comforter, to thy people, strengthen, we beseech 
thee, the faith of these bereaved ones, that they may con- 
template with peace the blessedness of that eternal home 
which thou hast prepared for all whom thou hast redeemed* 
Grant that they, and all others whose joy is turned into 
mourning, may not murmur nor faint under their affliction ; 
but, cleaving more closely unto thee, O blessed Lord Christy 
who art the resurrection and the life, may be led by thy 
Holy Spirit through all the trials of this uncertain life, till 
the day break and the shadows flee away. Amen. 

Here the Minister and the People may unite in the Lord's 
Prayer. 

Then shall the Minister dismiss the People with the 
Benediction. 



Form for the Dedication of a Church 

The Congregation being assembled in the Church, the Min- 
ister shall say : 

Dearly Beloved, the Scriptures teach us that God is well 
pleased with those who build temples to his name. We have 
heard how he filled the temple of Solomon with his glory 
and how in the second temple he manifested himself still more 
gloriously. And the gospel approves and commends the cen- 
turion who built a synagogue for the people. Let us not 
doubt that he will also favorably approve our purpose of 
dedicating this place in solemn manner, for the performance 
of the several offices of religious worship ; and let us now 
devoutly join in praise to his name, that this godly under- 
taking hath been so far completed, and in prayer for his 
further blessing upon all who have been engaged therein, and 
upon all who shall hereafter worship his name in this place. 

Let one of the Hymns 6$6-666, from The Hymnal, be sung. 
Afterward let extemporary Prayer be offered, concluding 
with the Lord's Prayer, the Congregation all kneeling. 



274 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

Then shall the Minister, or some one appointed by him, read: 

The First Lesson. 2 Chronicles 6. 1, 2, 18-21, 40-42; 7. 1-4. 
The Second Lesson. Hebrews 10. 19-25. 

Then shall one of the Hymns 656-666, from The Hymnal, be 
sung; after which the Minister shall deliver a Sermon suit- 
able to the occasion. Contributions shall then be received 
from the People. 

Then shall the Minister read the following Psalm, or the 
Minister and the Congregation may read it alternately : 

Psalm 122 

I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house 
of the Lord. 

Our feet shall stand within thy gates, O Jerusalem. 

Jerusalem is builded as a city that is compact together : 

Whither the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord, unto 
the testimony of Israel, to give thanks unto the name of 
the Lord. 

For there are set thrones of judgment, the thrones of the 
house of David. 

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that 
love thee. 

Peace be within thy walls, and prosperity within thy 
palaces. 

For my brethren and companions' sakes, I will now say, 
Peace be within thee. 

Because of the house of the Lord our God I will seek thy 
good. 

Then let the Trustees stand up before the Altar, and one of 
them, or some one in their behalf, say unto the Minister: 

We present unto you this building, to be dedicated as a 
church for the worship and service of Almighty God. 

Then shall the Minister request the Congregation to stand, 
while he repeats the following Declaration: 

Dearly Beloved, it is meet and right, as we learn from the 
Holy Scriptures, that houses erected for the public worship 
of God should be specially set apart and dedicated to reli- 
gious uses. For such a dedication we are now assembled. 
With gratitude, therefore, to Almighty God, who has signally 
blessed his servants in their holy enterprise of erecting this 
church, we dedicate it to his service, for the reading of the 
Holy Scriptures, the preaching of the Word of God, the 



DEDICATION OF A CHURCH 275 

administration of the Holy Sacraments, and for all other 
exercises of religious worship and service, according to the 
Discipline and Usages of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 
And, as the dedication of the temple is vain without the 
solemn consecration of the worshipers also, let us now dedi- 
cate ourselves anew to the service of God. To him let our 
souls be dedicated, that they may be renewed after the image 
of Christ To him let our bodies be dedicated, that they 
may be fit temples for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. To 
him may our labors and business be dedicated, that their 
fruit may tend to the glory of his great name, and to the 
advancement of his kingdom. 

Then shall the Minister say these words of Dedication, all 
the People standing and responding in the words printed 
in black face type: 

O God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, our Father : 

To thee we dedicate this church. 

Son of God, the Only Begotten of the Father, Head over 
all things to the Church, which is thy Body : Prophet, Priest, 
Redeemer, and King of thy people : 

To thee we dedicate this church. 

God the Holy Spirit, proceeding from the Father and the 
Son, our Teacher, Sanctifier, and Comforter : 

To thee we dedicate this church. 

Eternal, Holy, and Glorious Trinity, three Persons, one 
God. 

To thee we dedicate this church. 

Then, the Congregation kneeling, the Minister shall offer the 
following Prayer: 

O Most Glorious Lord, we acknowledge that we are not 
worthy to offer unto thee anything belonging unto us ; yet 
we beseech thee, in thy great goodness, graciously to accept 
the dedication of this place to thy service, and to prosper this 
our undertaking. Receive the prayers and intercessions of 
all those thy servants who shall cell upon thee in this house ; 
and give them grace to prepare their hearts to serve thee 
with reverence and godly fear. Affect them with a due ap- 
prehension of thy divine majesty, and a deep sense of their 
own unworthiness ; that so approaching thy sanctuary with 
lowliness and devotion, and coming before thee with clean 
thoughts and pure hearts, with bodies undefiled, and minds 
sanctified, they may always perform a service acceptable to 
thee, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Regard, O Lord, the supplication of thy servants, that who- 
soever shall be dedicated to thee in this house by Baptism 



1276 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

may ever remain in the number of thy faithful children. 
Amen. 

Grant, Lord, that whosoever shall receive in this place 
the blessed Sacrament of the body and blood of Christ may 
come to that holy Ordinance with faith, charity, and true 
repentance ; and, being filled with thy grace and heavenly 
benediction, may, to their great and endless comfort, obtain 
forgiveness of their sins, and all other benefits of his pas- 
sion. Amen. 

Grant, O Lord, that by thy Holy Word which shall be read 
and preached in this place, and by thy Holy Spirit grafting it 
inwardly in the heart, the hearers thereof may both perceive 
and know what things they ought to do, and may have power 
and strength to perform the same. Amen. 

Now, therefore, arise, O Lord, and come into this place 
of thy rest, thou and the ark of thy strength. Let thine eye 
be open toward this house day and night ; and let thine ears 
be ready toward the prayers of thy children, which they 
shall make unto thee in this < place. And whensoever thy 
servants shall make to thee their petitions here, do thou hear 
them from heaven, thy dwelling place, the throne of the glory 
of thy kingdom ; and when thou hearest, forgive. Grant, O 
Lord, we beseech thee, that here and elsewhere thy ministers 
may be clothed with righteousness, and thy saints rejoice 
in thy salvation. And may we all, with thy people every- 
where, grow up into a holy temple in the Lord, and be at 
last received into the glorious temple above ; the house not 
made with hands, eternal in the heavens. And to the Father, 
and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be glory and praise, world 
without end. Amen. 

The service shall conclude with a Doxology and Benediction. 



ARTICLES OF RELIGION OF THE METH- 
ODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH 

I. Of Faith in the Holy Trinity 

Tf i. There is but one living and true God, everlasting, 
without body or parts, of infinite power, wisdom, and good- 
ness; the maker and preserver of all things, visible and in- 
visible. And in unity of this Godhead there are three per- 
sons, of one substance, power, and eternity — the Father, 
the Son, and the Holy Ghost. 

II. Of the Word, or Son of God, who was made very Man 

If 2. The Son, who was the Word of the Father, the very 
and eternal God, of one substance with the Father, took 
man's nature in the womb of the blessed Virgin; so that 
two whole and perfect natures, that is to say, the Godhead 
and Manhood, were joined together in one person, never to 
be divided; whereof is one Christ, very God and very Man, 
who truly suffered, was crucified, dead, and buried, to 
reconcile his Father to us, and to be a sacrifice, not only 
for original guilt, but also for the actual sins of men. 

III. Of the Resurrection of Christ 

If 3. Christ did truly rise again from the dead, and took 
again his body, with all things appertaining to the per- 
fection of man's nature, wherewith he ascended into heaven, 
and there sitteth until he return to judge all men at the 
last day. 

IV. Of the Holy Ghost 

If 4. The Holy Ghost, proceeding from the Father and 
the Son, is of one substance, majesty, and glory with the 
Father and the Son, very and eternal God. 

V. The Sufficiency of the Holy Scriptures for Salvation 

If 5. The Holy Scriptures contain all things necessary to 
salvation; so that whatsoever is not read therein, nor may 
be proved thereby, is not to be required of any man that it 
should be believed as an article of faith, or be thought 

277 



278 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

requisite or necessary to salvation. In the name of the Holy 
Scriptures we do understand those canonical books of the 
Old and New Testament of whose authority was never any 
doubt in the Church. The names of the canonical books 
are: 

Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, 
Joshua, Judges, Ruth, The First Book of Samuel, The 
Second Book of Samuel, The First Book of Kings, The 
Second Book of Kings, The First Book of Chronicles, The 
Second Book of Chronicles, The Book of Ezra, The Book 
of Nehemiah, The Book of Esther, The Book of Job, The 
Psalms, The Proverbs, Ecclesiastes or the Preacher, Cantica 
or Song of Solomon, Four Prophets the Greater, Twelve 
Prophets the Less. 

All the books of the New Testament as they are com- 
monly received, we do receive and account canonical. 

VI. Of the Old Testament 

Tf 6. The Old Testament is not contrary to the New; for 
both in the Old and New Testament everlasting life is 
offered to mankind by Christ, who is the only Mediator 
between God and man, being both God and Man. Where- 
fore they are not to be heard who feign that the old fathers 
did look only for transitory promises. Although the law 
given from God by Moses as touching ceremonies and rites 
doth not bind Christians, nor ought the civil precepts there- 
of of necessity be received in any commonwealth; yet, not- 
withstanding, no Christian whatsoever is free from the 
obedience of the commandments which are called moral. 

VII. Of Original or Birth Sin 

If 7. Original sin standeth not in the following of Adam 
(as the Pelagians do vainly talk), but it is the corruption 
of the nature of every man, that naturally is engendered 
of the offspring of Adam, whereby man is very far gone 
from original righteousness, and of his own nature inclined 
to evil, and that continually. 

VIII. Of Free Will 

If 8. The condition of man after the fall of Adam is such 
that he cannot turn and prepare himself, by his own natural 
strength and works, to faith, and calling upon God; where- 
fore we have no power to do good works, pleasant and 
acceptable to God, without the grace of God by Christ 
preventing us, that we may have a good will, and working 
with us, when we have that good will. 



ARTICLES OF RELIGION 279 

IX. Of the Justification of Man 

1f 9. We are accounted righteous before God only for the 
merit of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, by faith, and 
not for our own works or deservings. Wherefore, that we 
are justified by faith only is a most wholesome doctrine, and 
very full of comfort. 

X. Of Good Works 

If 10. Although good works, which are the fruits of faith, 
and follow after justification, cannot put away our sins, 
and endure the severity of God's judgments; yet are they 
pleasing and acceptable to God in Christ, and spring out 
of a true and lively faith, insomuch that by them a lively 
faith may be as evidently known as a tree is discerned by 
its fruit. 

XI. Of Works of Supererogation 

If 11. Voluntary works — besides, over, and above God's 
commandments — which are called works of supererogation, 
cannot be taught without arrogancy and impiety. For by 
them men do declare that they do not only render unto 
God as much as they are bound to do, but that they do 
more for his sake than of bounden duty is required: whereas 
Christ saith plainly: When ye have done all that is com- 
manded of you, say, We are unprofitable servants. 

XII. Of Sin after Justification 

If 12. Not every sin willingly committed after justification 
is the sin against the Holy Ghost, and unpardonable. 
Wherefore, the grant of repentance is not to be denied to 
such as fall into sin after justification: after we have re- 
ceived the Holy Ghost, we may depart from grace given, 
and fall into sin, and, by the grace of God, rise again and 
amend our lives. And therefore they are to be condemned 
who say they can no more sin as long as they live here; 
or deny the place of forgiveness to such as truly repent. 

XIII. Of the Church 

Jf 13. The visible Church of Christ is a congregation of 
faithful men in which the pure Word of God is preached, 
and the Sacraments duly administered according to Christ's 
ordinance, in all those things that of necessity are requisite 
to the same. 

XIV. Of Purgatory 

% 14. The Romish doctrine concerning purgatory, pardon, 



28o SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

worshiping and adoration, as well of images as of relics, 
and also invocation of saints, is a fond thing, vainly in- 
vented, and grounded upon no warrant of Scripture, but 
repugnant to the Word of God. 

XV. Of Speaking in the Congregation in such a Tongue as 
the People Understand 

If 15. It is a thing plainly repugnant to the Word of God, 
and the custom of the primitive Church, to have public 
prayer in the Church, or to administer the Sacraments, in 
a tongue not understood by the people. 

XVI. Of the Sacraments 

1f 16. Sacraments ordained of Christ are not only badges 
or tokens of Christian men's profession, but ratHer they 
are certain signs of grace, and God's good will toward us, 
by the which he doth work invisibly in us, and doth not 
only quicken, but also strengthen and confirm, our faith 
in him. 

There are two Sacraments ordained of Christ our Lord 
in the Gospel; that is to say, Baptism and the Supper of 
the Lord. 

Those five commonly called Sacraments, that is to say, 
confirmation, penance, orders, matrimony, and extreme 
unction, are not to be counted for Sacraments of the Gospel; 
being such as have partly grown out of the corrupt fol- 
lowing of the Apostles, and partly are states of life allowed 
in the Scriptures, but yet have not the like nature of Bap- 
tism and the Lord's Supper, because they have not any 
visible sign or ceremony ordained of God. 

The Sacraments were not ordained of Christ to be gazed 
upon, or to be carried about; but that we should duly use 
them. And in such only as worthily receive the same they 
have a wholesome effect or operation: but they that receive 
them unworthily, purchase to themselves condemnation, 
as Saint Paul saith, 1 Cor. 11. 29. 

XVII. Of Baptism 

% 17. Baptism is not only a sign of profession and mark 
of difference whereby Christians are distinguished from 
others that are not baptized; but it is also a sign of re- 
generation or the new birth. The baptism of young chil- 
dren is to be retained in the Church. 

XVIII. Of the Lord's Supper 
H 18. The Supper of the Lord is not only a sign of the 



ARTICLES OF RELIGION 281 

love that Christians ought to have among themselves one 
to another, but rather is a Sacrament of our redemption by 
Christ's death; insomuch that, to such as rightly, worthily, 
and with faith receive the same, the bread which we break 
is a partaking of the body of Christ; and likewise the cup 
of blessing is a partaking of the blood of Christ. 

Transubstantiation, or the change of the substance of 
bread and wine in the Supper of our Lord, cannot be 
proved by Holy Writ, but is repugnant to the plain words 
of Scripture, overthroweth the nature of a Sacrament, and 
hath given occasion to many superstitions. 

The body of Christ is given, taken, and eaten in the 
Supper, only after a heavenly and spiritual manner. And 
the means whereby the body of Christ is received and eaten 
in the Supper is faith. 

The Sacrament of the Lord's Supper was not by Christ's 
ordinance reserved, carried about, lifted up, or worshiped. 

XIX. Of both Kinds 

If 19. The Cup of the Lord is not to be denied to the Lay 
People; for both the parts of the Lord's Supper, by Christ's 
ordinance and commandment, ought to be administered to 
all Christians alike. 

XX. Of the one oblation of Christ, finished upon the Cross 

If 20. The offering of Christ, once made, is that perfect 
redemption, propitiation, and satisfaction for all the sins 
of the whole" world, both original and actual; and there is 
none other satisfaction for sin but that alone. Wherefore 
the sacrifice of masses, in the which it is commonly said 
that the priest doth offer Christ for the quick and the dead, 
to have remission of pain or guilt, is a blasphemous fable 
and dangerous deceit. 

XXI. Of the Marriage of Ministers 

% 21. The Ministers of Christ are not commanded by 
God's law either to vow the estate of single life, or to 
abstain from marriage; therefore it -is lawful for them, as 
for all other Christians, to marry at their own discretion, 
as they shall judge the same to serve best to godliness. 

XXII. Of the Rites and Ceremonies of Churches 

If 22. It is not necessary that rites and ceremonies should 
in all places be the same, or exactly alike; for they have 
been always different, and may be changed according to 



282 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

the diversity of countries, times, and men's manners, so that 
nothing be ordained against God's Word. Whosoever, 
through his private judgment, willingly and purposely doth 
openly break the rites and ceremonies of the Church to 
which he belongs, which are not repugnant to the Word 
of God, and are ordained and approved by common au- 
thority, ought to be rebuked openly (that others may fear 
to do the like), as one that offendeth against the common 
order of he Church, and woundeth the consciences of weak 
brethren. 

Every particular Church may ordain, change, or abolish 
rites and ceremonies, so that all things may be done to 
edification. 

XXIII. Of the Rulers of the United States of America 

If 23. The President, the Congress, the General Assemblies, 
the Governors, and Councils of State as the Delegates of 
the People, are the Rulers of the United States of America, 
according to the division of power made to them by the 
Constitution of the United States, and by the Constitutions 
of their respective States. And the said States are a sov- 
ereign and independent Nation, and ought not to be subject 
to any foreign jurisdiction. 1 

XXIV. Of Christian Men's Goods 

If 24. The riches and goods of Christians are not common, 
as touching the right, title, and possession of the same, as 
some do falsely boast. Notwithstanding, every man ought, 
of such things as he possesseth, liberally to give alms to 
the poor, according to his ability. 

XXV. Of a Christian Man's Oath 

If 25. As we confess that vain and rash swearing is for- 
bidden Christian men by our Lord Jesus Christ and James 
his Apostle; so we judge that the Christian religion doth 
not prohibit, but that a man may swear when the magis- 
trate requireth, in a cause of faith and charity, so it be 
done according to the Prophet's teaching, in justice, judg- 
ment,, and truth. 



1 As far as it respects civil affairs we believe it the duty of Chris- 
tians, and especially of all Christian Ministers, to be subject to the 
supreme authority of the country where they may reside, and to 
use all laudable means to enjoin obedience to the powers that be; 
and therefore it is expected that all our Preachers and People, who 
may be under the British or any other Government, will behave 
themselves as peaceable and orderly subjects. 



THE GENERAL RULES 

The Nature, Design, and General Rules of our United 
Societies 

If 26. In the latter end of the year 1739 eight or ten 
persons who appeared to be deeply convicted of sin, and 
earnestly groaning for redemption, came to Mr. Wesley in 
London. They desired, as did two or three more the next 
day, that he would spend some time with them in prayer, 
and advise them how to flee from the wrath to come, which 
they saw continually hanging over their heads. That he 
might have more time for this great work, he appointed a 
day when they might all come together; which from thence- 
forward they did every week, namely, on Thursday, in the 
evening. To these, and as many more as desired to join 
with them (for their number increased daily), he gave 
those advices from time to time which he judged most 
needful for them; and they always concluded their meeting 
with prayer suited to their several necessities. 

1[ 27. This was the rise of the United Society, first in 
Europe, and then in America. Such a society is no other 
than "a company of men having the form and seeking the 
power of godliness, united in order to pray together, to 
receive the word of exhortation, and to watch over one 
another in love, that they may help each other to work 
out their salvation." 

If 28. That it may the more easily be discerned whether 
they are indeed working out their own salvation, each 
Society is divided into smaller companies, called Classes, 
according to their respective places of abode. There are 
about twelve persons in a Class, one of whom is styled 
The Leader. It is his duty, 

§ 1. To see each person in his Class once a week at least; 
in order, (1.) To inquire how his soul prospers. (2.) To 
advise, reprove, comfort, or exhort, as occasion may re- 
quire. (3.) To receive what he is willing to give toward 
the relief of the Preachers, Church and poor. 

§ 2. To meet the Ministers and the Stewards of the So- 
ciety once a week; in order, (1.) To inform the Minister 
of any that are sick, or of any that walk disorderly and 
will not be reproved. (2.) To pay the Stewards what he 
has received of his Class in the week preceding. 
283 



284 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

If 29. There is only one condition previously required of 
those who desire admission into these Societies — "a desire 
to flee from the wrath to come, and to be saved from their 
sins." But wherever this is really fixed in the soul it will 
be shown by its fruits. 

If 30. It is therefore expected of all who continue therein 
that they shall continue to evidence their desire of salva- 
tion, 

First: By doing no harm, by avoiding evil of every kind, 
especially that which is most generally practiced; such as, 

The taking of the name of God in vain. 

The profaning the day of the Lord, either by doing ordi- 
nary work therein or by buying or selling. 

Drunkenness, buying or selling spirituous liquors, or 
drinking them, unless in cases of extreme necessity. 

Slaveholding; buying or selling slaves. 

Fighting, quarreling, brawling, brother going to law with 
brother; returning evil for evil, or railing for railing; the 
using of many words in buying or selling. 

The buying or selling goods that have not paid the duty. 

The giving or taking of things on usury — that is, unlaw- 
ful interest. 

Uncharitable or unprofitable conversation; particularly 
speaking evil of Magistrates or of Ministers. 

Doing to others as we would not they should do unto us. 

Doing what we know is not for the glory of God, as: 
The putting on of gold and costly apparel. 
The taking such diversions as cannot be used in the 

name of the Lord Jesus. 
The singing those songs, or reading those books, which 
do not tend to the knowledge or love of God. 

Softness and needless self-indulgence. 

Laying up treasure upon earth. 

Borrowing without a probability of paying; or taking up 
goods without a probability of paying for them. 

If 31. It is expected of all who continue in these Societies 
that they shall continue to evidence their desire of salvation. 

Second: By doing good; by being in every kind merciful 
after their power; as they have opportunity, doing good of 
every possible sort, and, as far as possible, to all men: 

To their bodies, of the ability which God giveth, by giv- 
ing food to the hungry, by clothing the naked, by visiting 
or helping them that are sick or in prison: 

To their souls, by instructing, reproving, or exhorting 
all we have any intercourse with; trampling under foot that 
enthusiastic doctrine, that "we are not to do good unless 
our hearts be free to it." 

By doing good, especially to them that are of the house- 



; 



THE GENERAL RULES 285 

hold of faith or groaning so to be; employing them pref- 
erably to others; buying one of another; helping each other 
in business; and so much the more because the world will 
love its own and them only. 

By all possible diligence and frugality, that the Gospel 
be not blamed. 

By running with patience the race which is set before 
them, denying themselves, and taking up their cross daily; 
submitting to bear the reproach of Christ, to be as the filth 
and off scouring of the world; and looking that men should 
say all manner of evil of them falsely, for the Lord's sake. 

If 32. It is expected of all who desire to continue in these 
Societies that they shall continue to evidence their desire 
of salvation, 

Third: By attending upon all the ordinances of God; 
such are, 

The Public Worship of God. 

The Ministry of the Word, either read or expounded. 

The Supper of the Lord. 

Family and private Prayer. 

Searching the Scriptures. 

Fasting or Abstinence. 

If 33. These are the General Rules of our Societies; all 
which we are taught of God to observe, even in his written 
Word, which is the only rule, and the sufficient rule, both 
of our faith and practice. And all these we know his Spirit 
writes on truly awakened hearts. If there be any among 
us who observes them not, who habitually breaks any of 
them, let it be known unto them who watch over that soul 
as they who must give an account. We will admonish him 
of the error of his ways. We will bear with him for a 
season. But if then he repent not, he hath no more place 
among us. We have delivered our own souls. 



SPECIAL ADVICES 

Divorce 

No divorce, except for adultery, shall be regarded by the 
Church as lawful; and no Minister shall solemnize marriage 
in any case where there is a divorced wife or husband living; 
but this rule shall not be applied to the innocent party to a 
divorce for the cause of adultery, nor to divorced parties 
seeking to be reunited in marriage. If 68 of the Discipline. 1 

Amusements 

Improper amusements and excessive indulgence in in- 
nocent amusements are serious barriers to the beginning 
of the religious life and fruitful causes of spiritual decline. 
Some amusements in common use are positively demoraliz- 
ing and furnish the first easy steps to the total loss of 
character. We therefore look with deep concern on the 
great increase of amusements and on the general prevalence 
of harmful amusements, and lift up a solemn note of warn- 
ing and entreaty, particularly against theater-going, danc- 
ing, and such games of chance as are frequently associated 
with gambling; all of which have been found to be an- 
tagonistic to vita] piety, promotive of worldliness, and espe- 
cially pernicious to youth. We affectionately admonish all 
our people to make their amusements the subject of care- 
ful thought and frequent prayer, to study the subject of 
amusements in the light of their tendencies, and to be 
scrupulously careful in this matter to set no injurious ex- 
ample. We adjure them to remember that often the ques- 
tion for a Christian must be, not whether a certain course 
of action is positively immoral, but whether it will dull 
the spiritual life and be an unwise example. We direct all 
our Bishops, District Superintendents, and Pastors to call 
attention to this subject with solemn urgency in our Annual 
and Quarterly Conferences and in all our pulpits; and our 
Editors, Sunday School Officers, Epworth League Officers, 
and Class Leaders, to aid in abating the evils we deplore. 
We deem it our bounden duty to summon the whole Church 
to apply a thoughtful and instructed conscience to the 

1 The provisions of this paragraph are not merely advisory, but 
obligatory, see 1f 264, § 1. 

286 



SPECIAL ADVICES 287 

choice of amusements, and not to leave them to accident 
or taste, or passion; and we affectionately advise and be- 
seech every member of the Church absolutely to avoid "the 
taking such diversions as cannot be used in the name of 
the Lord Jesus." T[ 69 of the Discipline. 

Temperance 

§ 1. Temperance, in its broader meaning, is distinctively 
a Christian virtue, enjoined in the Holy Scriptures. It 
requires the subordination of all the emotions, passions, 
and appetites to the control of reason and conscience. 
Dietetically, it means a wise use of suitable articles of food 
and drink, with entire abstinence from such as are known 
to be hurtful. Both science and human experience agree 
with the Holy Scriptures in condemning all alcoholic bev- 
erages as being neither useful nor safe. The business of 
manufacturing and of vending such liquors is also against 
the principles of morality, political economy, and the public 
welfare. We therefore regard voluntary total abstinence 
from all intoxicants as the obligation of the citizen and 
the complete legal prohibition of the traffic in alcoholic 
drinks as the duty of civil government. We heartily approve 
all lawful and Christian efforts to save society from the 
manifold and grievous evils resulting from intemperance, 
and earnestly advise our people to cooperate with all meas- 
ures which may seem to them wisely adapted to secure that 
end. We refer to our General Rule on this subject (If 30), 
and affectionately urge its strict observance by all our 
members. Finally, we are fully persuaded that, under God, 
hope for the ultimate success of the Temperance Reform 
rests chiefly upon the combined and sanctified influence of 
the Family, the Church, and the State. 

§ 2. We record our solemn judgment that the habitual 
use of tobacco is a practice out of harmony with the best 
Christian life. In the interest of a larger Christian influ- 
ence and service we urge our members to abstain from the 
use of cigarettes and of tobacco in all other forms. % 70 o£ 
the Discipline. 

Christian Stewardship 

§ 1. The following principles should be recognized by 
the individual Christian who would relate himself intelli- 
gently to property, income, wages and wealth: 

(1) God is the owner of all things. 

(2) God invites men to subdue the earth and possess it. 

(3) Under grace, man is a steward to hold and administer 
his possessions as a sacred trust. 

(4) God's ownership ought to be acknowledged. 



288 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

(5) Biblical history records, and extra-biblical history 
recognizes the setting apart of the tenth of the income as 
that acknowledgment; there is indicated a divine sanction 
for the practice and the amount. 

(6) God's ownership and man's stewardship are best evi- 
denced by the systematic application of this portion of in- 
come to the advancement of the Kingdom, and by the faith- 
ful use of the balance of income not set aside. 

§ 2. The following methods should be pursued by the in- 
dividual Christian who would administer wisely his steward- 
ship of material possessions: 

(1) Actual or constructive separation of the proportion 
of income which complies with the foregoing principles. 

(2) A written pledge in advance for the regular work of 
the Church (local budget and benevolence budget). 

(3) A weekly payment of the amounts subscribed; offered 
as an act of worship at a public service if this is possible; 
otherwise held until offering may be made. 

(4) Payments from time tc time, out of the portion set 
aside but not previously pledged, to special causes. 

(5) Careful, intelligent, personal, and prayerful considera- 
tion of the uses to be made of the whole of income and 
wealth; this will require study of the local, national, and 
world-wide program of the Church, and of the full steward- 
ship of life itself. 

(6) Freewill offerings, thank-offerings, and gifts. If 71 of 
the Discipline. 



THE JUNIOR CATECHISM 

I. GOD 

1. What is the first verse of the Bible? 

In the beginning God created the heaven and the 
earth. — Gen. i. i. 

2. Who is God? 

God is our Father in heaven, the Creator of all things, 

and the Giver of every good gift. 
Have we not all one father? hath not one God created 

us? — Mai. 2. 10. 
(Acts 4. 24; 1 Cor. 8. 6; James 1. 17; Eccl. 12. 1.) 

3. Where is God? 
God is everywhere. 

Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not 
see him? saith the Lord. Do not I fill heaven and 
earth? saith the Lord. — Jer. 23. 24. 

(Psa. 139. 7-10.) 

4. What does God know? 

God knows all things, even the thoughts of our hearts. 
Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou 

under standest my thought afar off. — Psa. 139. 2. 
(Prov. 15. 3; Ezek. 11. 5; John 21. 17.) 

5. What can God do? 

God can do whatever he wills to do. 

Jer. 32. 27. 

(Matt. 22. 29; Rom. 4. 21 ; Dan. 4. 35.) 

6. How long has God lived? 

God has lived always, and will live forever. 

Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou 
hadst formed the earth and the world, even from 
everlasting to everlasting, thou art God. — Psa. 90. 2. 

(Isa. 44. 6; Rev. 1. 8.) 

289 



290 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

7. Is Go d good? 

God is holy, just, and good. 

Exod. 34. 6. 

(Psa. 145. 9, 17: Rev. 15. 3.) 

8. Does God love us? 

Yes ; God loves everybody, for "God is love." 

Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love. — Jer. 

31. 3- 
(Rom. 5:8; John 17. 23; 1 John 4. 10.) 

p. Ought we to love God? 

Yes : we ought to love God, because he first loved us. 
We love him, because he first loved us. — 1 John 4. 19. 
(Deut. 6. 5 ; Josh. 23. 11 ; 2 John 6.) 
fO. Is there but one God? 

There is but one living and true God. 

1 Kings 8. 60. 

(2 Kings 19. 19; Isa. 42. 8; 1. Cor. 8. 5, 6.) 

11. How does God make himself known to us in the Bible? 
God makes himself known to us in the Bible as the 

Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. 
But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the 

Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all 

things. — John 14. 26. 
(2 Cor. 13. 14; Phil. 2. 6.) 

12. In what name are Christians baptised? 

Christians are baptized in the name of the Father, and 
of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. — Matt. 28. 19. 

II. MAN 

13. Who were our first parents? 

Adam and Eve were our first parents. 
Gen. 3. 20. 
(Acts 17. 26.) 



THE JUNIOR CATECHISM 291 

14. Where did God place our first parents? 
God placed them in the Garden of Eden. 
(Gen. 2,8.) 

15. Were they created good? 

They were created good; for God made them in his 

own image. 
So God created man in his own image. — Gen. 1. 2J. 
(Gen. 1. 31; Eccl. 7. 29; Isa. 43. 7.) 

16. What were they given to do? 

They were to care for the garden, and to enjoy its 

fruits. 
(Gen. 2. 15, 16.) 

17. What were they forbidden to do? 

They were forbidden to eat of the tree of knowledge 

of good and evil. 
(Gen. 2. 17.) 

18. Did they obey God? 

No; they sinned against God by eating the forbidden 

fruit. 
(Gen. 3. 6.) 
ig. What is sin? 

Sin is any act, word, or purpose in which we disobey 

God, or any failure to keep his law of love. 
Sin is the transgression of the law. — 1 John 3. 4. 
(Rom. 13. 10; James 4. 17.) 

20. What evil did sin bring upon our first parents? 

They lost the favor of God, were driven out of Eden, 

and became subject to pain and death. 
(Gen. 3. 24.) 

21, What evil did their fall bring upon all men? 

By their fall sin entered into the world, and death by 
sin. 



292 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

By one man sin entered into the world, and death by 

sin. — Rom. 5. 12. 
(Rom. 5. 18; 6. 23; 1 Cor. 15. 22.) 

III. JESUS CHRIST 

22. What did God do to save fallen man? 

God so loved the world, that he gave his only be- 
gotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should 
not perish, but have everlasting life. — John 3. 16. 

23. What did the Son of God do to save sinners? 

To save sinners Jesus Christ, the Son of God, became 
man, lived, suffered, died, and rose again from the 
dead. 

(John 1. 14; 1 Cor. 15. 3, 4; Gal. 4. 4-) 

24. How did he become man? 

The Son of God became man by taking upon him a 
human body and soul, being born of the Virgin Mary. 
Rom. 1. 3. 
(Heb. 2. 14; Phil. 2. 7; 1 Tim. 3. 16.) 

25. Where was he born? 

He was born in Bethlehem of Judea. 
(Mic. 5. 2; Matt. 2. 1 ; Luke 2. 11.) 

26. Who first told the good news of his birth? 

The angel of the Lord told shepherds the good news 

of his birth. 
(Luke 2. 8-12.) 

27. What did the shepherds do? 

They went quickly to Bethlehem, and found the babe 

lying in a manger. 
(Luke 2. 15, 16.) 



THE JUNIOR CATECHISM 293 

28. Did others come to see the young child? 

Wise men from the East came and worshiped him, 
bringing gifts of gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. 
(Matt. 2. 1, 2, 11.) 

29. Where was the Child first taken? 

He was first taken to the temple in Jerusalem, and was 

there presented to God. 
(Luke 2. 22.) 

30. What name was given to him? 

They "called his name Jesus." — Matt. 1. 25. 

31. Why was this name chosen? 

Because God had said: "Thou shalt call his name 
Jesus : for he shall save his people from their sins." 
— Matt. 1. 21. 

32. What does the name Jesus mean? 
The name Jesus means Saviour. 

33. By what other name was he called? 

The angel that spoke to the shepherds called him, 
"Christ, the Lord." — Luke 2. 11. 

34. What does the name Christ mean? 

The name Christ means "The Anointed One." 
(Luke 4. 18; Acts 10. 38.) 

35. On zvhat day do we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ? 
We celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ on Christmas- 
day. 

36. Who sought to kill the young child Jesus? 

King Herod sought to kill him, but he was taken to 

Egypt for safety. 
(Matt. 2. 13, 14.) 



294 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

37. Where did Jesus live after Herod's death t 

After Herod's death he was brought back from Egypt, 

and lived in Nazareth. 
(Matt. 2. 23; Luke 2. 39.) 

38. Where was he taken when twelve years old? 

When twelve years old he was taken to the feast at 

Jerusalem. 
(Luke 2. 42.) 

39. When his parents missed him on their way home, where 

did they find him? 

They turned back to Jerusalem, and found him in the 
temple with the teachers asking and answering ques- 
tions. 

(Luke 2. 43-470 

40. What is told about the youth of Jesus at Nazareth? 
Jesus was subject unto his parents, and grew in wis- 
dom and stature and in favor with God and men. 

(Luke 2. 40, 51, 52.) 

41. When did Jesus begin. his ministry? 

He began his ministry when he was about thirty years 

old. 
(Luke 3. 23.) 

42. How did Jesus begin his ministry? 

He went to John the Baptist at the river Jordan, and 

was baptized by him. 
(Matt. 3. 13; Luke 3. 21.) 

43. What took place when Jesus was baptized? 

The Holy Ghost came upon him like a dove, and a 
voice from heaven said, "This is my beloved Son." 
— Matt. 3. 16, 17. 



THE JUNIOR CATECHISM 295 

44. What did John the Baptist say of Jesus? 

John the Baptist said, "Behold the Lamb of God, 
which taketh away the sin of the world." — John 1. 29. 

45. What did Jesus do after his baptism? 

He went into the wilderness and fasted forty days 

and forty nights. 
(Matt. 4. 1, 2.) 

46. What else took place in the wilderness? 
Jesus was tempted by the devil. 
(Matt. 4. 3-ii.) 

47. How did he overcome the tempter? 

Jesus overcame the tempter by the word of God. 
(Luke 4. 4, 8, 12.) 

48. What did Jesus do after the temptation? 

He began preaching the gospel of the Kingdom* in 

Galilee and Judea. 
(Matt. 11. 4, 5.) 

49. What great works did Jesus do? 

He did many miracles ; through him the blind received 
their sight, the lame walked, the lepers were cleansed, 
the deaf heard, and the dead were raised up. 

(Matt. 11:4,5.) 

50. What greater works did Jesus do? 

He forgave sinners ; he cleansed the heart ; he healed 
the broken-hearted; he delivered men from the 
power of sin and Satan, and made them the chil- 
dren of God. 

(Matt. 9. 2; Luke 4. 18, 19.) 

51. What twelve men did Jesus choose and train as his 

apostles and helpers? 
Jesus chose as his apostles and helpers, "Simon, who 



296 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the 
son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip, and 
Bartholomew; Thomas, and Matthew the publican; 
James the son of Alphseus, and Lebbseus, whose sur- 
name was Thaddaeus ; Simon the Canaanite, and 
Judas Iscariot. ,, — Matt. 10. 2-4. 

52. What did Jesus say about little children? 

Jesus said, "Suffer the little children to come unto me, 
and forbid them not : for of such is the kingdom of 
God."— Mark 10. 14. 

53. How did Jesus come to his death? 

He was betrayed by Judas Iscariot, was falsely accused 
before the high priest, "he suffered under Pontius 
Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried." — Apostles' 
Creed.) 

(Matt. 16. 21; Luke 22. 48; John 19. 33.) 

54. Where was Jesus crucified? 

Jesus was crucified without the gate of Jerusalem, at 

a place called Calvary. 
.(Luke 23. 33.) 

55. Why was Jesus crucified? 

Jesus willingly laid down his life for the sins of the 

world. 
I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his 

life for the sheep. ... I lay down my life for the 

sheep. — John 10. 11, 15. 
(John 10. 17, 18; Luke 22. 42.) 

56. Who buried the body of Jesus? 

Joseph of Arimathea, and Nicodemus, rulers among 

the Jews, buried it in a new tomb. 
(John 19. 38-42.) 



THE JUNIOR CATECHISM 297 

57. When did Jesus rise from the dead? 

On the third day Jesus rose from the dead. 
(1 Cor. 15. 4.) 

58. By what power did Jesus rise from the dead? 

Jesus rose from the dead by the power of God, through 

which he did his pther mighty works. 
God hath both raised up the Lord, and will also raise 

up us by his own power. — 1 Cor. 6. 14. 
(Acts 2. 32; Acts 10. 40; Heb. 13. 20.) 

59. What does the resurrection of Jesus prove to us? 
The resurrection of Jesus proves to us that he is the 

Son of God, and that we also shall rise from the 

dead. 
Declared to be the Son of God with power, according 

to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the 

dead. — Rom. 1. 4. 
Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall 

raise up us also by Jesus. — 2 Cor. 4. 14. 
(1 Pet. 1. 3.) 

60. On what day of the week did Jesus rise from the dead? 
Jesus rose from the dead on the first day of the week, 

now called Sunday, or the Lord's day. 
(Matt. 28. 1.) 

61. What day each year is kept in memory of the resurrec- 

tion of Jesus? 
Easter-day is kept in memory of the resurrection of 
Jesus. 

62. How long did Jesus remain on the earth after his 

resurrection? 
Jesus was seen by his disciples for forty days after 

his resurrection, and then he ascended into heaven. 
He shewed himself alive after his passion by many 

infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days. — 

Acts 1. 3. 



298 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

63. What was the last command that Jesus gave to his 

disciples ? 
Jesus said, "All power is given unto me in heaven and 
in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations." — 
Matt. 28. 18, 19. 

64. What was the last promise of Jesus? 

The last promise of Jesus was, "Lo, I am with you 
alway, even unto the end of the world." — Matt. 28. 20. 

65. What was the last act of Jesus? 

Jesus led his disciples to Bethany, lifted up his hands, 
and "while he blessed them, he was parted from 
them, and carried up into heaven." — Luke 24. 51. 

66. Does Jesus still live and reign? 

Jesus reigns at the right hand of God, and ever lives 

to make intercession for us. 
Who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh 

intercession for us. — Rom. 8. 34. 

67. Will Jesus our Lord come to earth again? 

Jesus will come again to raise the dead, and to judge 
the world. 

For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his 
Father with his angels ; and then he shall reward 
every man according to his works. — Matt 16. 27. 

(Matt. 24. 42; 2 Tim. 4. 1.) 

68. What will our Lord Jesus Christ say to the good at the 

judgment? 
Our Lord will say to them, "Come, ye blessed of my 
Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from 
the foundation of the world." — Matt. 25. 34. 

69. What will our Lord say to the wicked? 

He will say to them, "Depart from me, ye cursed, 



THE JUNIOR CATECHISM 299 

into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his 
angels."— Matt. 25. 41. 

70. What great truths concerning Jesus Christ as the 

Saviour of men are plainly taught in the Scriptures? 
That all men need salvation ; that Jesus Christ has pro- 
vided salvation for all men ; that this salvation is the 
gift of God through faith in Jesus ; that those who 
are saved may know the fact; that it is the privilege 
of God's children to be cleansed from all sin; and 
that all who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and 
obey Him to the end shall be saved in heaven. 

IV. THE HOLY GHOST 

71. Who is the Holy Ghost? 

The Holy Ghost is the Spirit of God, the divine Helper 
whom Jesus promised his disciples before he left 
the world. 

But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send 
unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, 
which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify 
of me. — John 15. 26. 

72. When was this promise fulfilled? 
On the Day of Pentecost. 

(Acts 2. 1-4.) 

73. What is the first work of the Holy Spirit in our hearts? 
He first shows us our sins, and our need of a Saviour. 
John 16. 8. 

74. What will the Holy Spirit do for us if we turn from 

our sins and seek the Saviour? 
He will lead us to the Saviour and give us a new 

heart. 
The love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the 

Holy Ghost which is given unto us. — Rom. 5. 5. 



300 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

75. What then will the Holy Spirit do for us? 

He will assure us that we are the children of God; 

he will comfort us in trouble; and he will help us 

to lead a holy life. 
The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that 

we are the children of God. — Rom. 8. 16. 
Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities. — Rom. 

8. 26. 

V. THE MEANS OF GRACE 

76. What means are used by the Holy Spirit to aid us in 

living a Christian life? 
He uses the word of God and prayer, the Church of 
Christ, and the sacraments. 

77. What is the word of God? 

The Holy Bible is the word of God. 

When ye received the word of God which ye heard 
of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as 
it is in truth, the word of God.— 1 Thess. 2. 13. 

78. How was the Holy Bible given to us? 

The Holy Bible was written by men inspired of God. 
For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of 

man : but holy men of God spake as they were moved 

by the Holy Ghost.— 2 Pet. 1. 21. 

79. For what purpose has God given us the Bible? 

The Bible was given to make known God and his will; 
and to be our rule of faith and duty. 

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is 
profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, 
for instruction in righteousness. — 2 Tim. 3. 16. 

80. What is prayer? 

Prayer is offering the desire of our hearts to our 
Heavenly Father according to his will. 



THE JUNIOR CATECHISM 301 

81. In what way should we pray? 

We should pray with sorrow for our sins, with thanks- 
giving for God's goodness, and with faith in his 
promises. 

If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear 
me. — Psa. 66. 18. 

(Isa. 59. 1, 2; Phil. 4. 6; Col. 4. 2.) 

82. For whom should we pray f 

For everybody, even for our enemies. 

I exhort therefore, that, first^ of all, supplications, 
prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made 
for all men. — 1 Tim. 2. 1. 

83. In whose name should we pray? 

In the name of Christ, our Lord and Saviour. 

If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it. — 
John 14. 14. 

84. Who compose the Church of Christ? 

The Church of Christ is composed of all the children 
of God on earth and in heaven. 

So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every 

one members one of another. — Rom. 12. 5. 
(Acts 10. 35; Rom. 12. 5 ; 1 Cor. 12. 4-6; Eph. 4. 3-6.) 

85. By what other name is the Church of Christ called ? 
In the Apostles' Creed the Church of Christ is called 

"the holy catholic Church." 

86. What is the work of the Church ? 

The work of the Church is to witness for Christ, and 
to carry on his work in saving the world. 

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them 
in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of 
the Holy Ghost.— Matt. 28. 19. 

(Acts 1. 8; 13. 47; Isa. 49. 6.) 






302 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

87. What is a sacrament? 

A sacrament is an outward sign, appointed by Christ, 

of an inward grace. 
(Rom. 4. 11.) 

88. How many sacraments are there? 

There are two sacraments : Baptism and the Lord's 
Supper. 

89. What is the outward sign in Baptism? 

The outward sign in Baptism is water applied in the 
name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy 
Ghost. 

(Acts 8. 36; 10. 47.) 

90. What is the inward grace signified by Baptism? 
The inward grace is the cleansing of the heart by the 

Holy Spirit. 
As many of you as have been baptized into Christ 
have put on Christ. — Gal. 3. 27. 

91. Who should be baptized? 

Little children should be baptized, and all who accept 

Jesus as their Saviour. 
For the promise is unto you, and to your children. — 

Acts 2. 39. 
Acts 8. 36, 37- 

92. Why should little children be baptized? 

Little children should be baptized because they belong 
to Christ, and are members of his kingdom. 

But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them 
not, to come unto me : for such is the kingdom of 
heaven. — Matt. 19. 14. 

93. What is the outward sign in the Lord's Supper? 

The outward sign in the Lord's Supper is bread and 
wine used in memory of the death of Christ. 



THE JUNIOR CATECHISM 30$ 

94. What is the inward grace signified by the Lord's 

Supper? 
The inward grace is our union with Christ by faith, 

whereby we receive strength from him for the duties 

and trials of life. 
John 6. 56. 

95. What is the further purpose of the Lord's Supper? 
To signify that all the disciples of Christ are one 

family in him, and to show his death till he come. 
For we being many are one bread, and one body. — 
1 Cor. 10. 17. For as often as ye eat this bread, and 
drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he 
come. — 1 Cor. 11. 26. 

96. Should all Christians unite in this Holy Communion? 
They should ; for Jesus commands, "This do in re- 
membrance of me." — Luke 22. 19. 

VI. DUTIES TO GOD AND MAN 

97. What is the first commandment? 

"Thou shalt have no other gods before me." — Exod.. 
20. 3. 

98. What is the second commandment? 

"Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, 
or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, 
or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the 
water under the earth : Thou shalt not bow down 
thyself to them, nor serve them : for I the Lord thy 
God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the 
fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth 
generation of them that hate me; And showing mercy 
unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my 
commandments." — Exod. 20. 4-6. 



304 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

pp. What is the third commandment? 

"Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God 
in vain ; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that 
taketh his name in vain." — Exod. 20. 7. 

100. What is the fourth commandment? 

"Remember the Sabbath-day, to keep it holy. Six 
days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work: But 
the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy 
God : in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy 
son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy 
maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that 
is within thy gates : For in six days the Lord 
made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in 
them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the 
Lord blessed the Sabbath-day, and hallowed it." — 
Exod. 20. 8-1 1. 

10 1. What is the fifth commandment? 

"Honor thy father and thy mother : that thy days may 
be long upon the land which the Lord thy God 
giveth thee." — Exod. 20. 12. 

102. What is the sixth commandment? 
"Thou shalt not kill."— Exod. 20. 13. 

103. What is the seventh commandment? 

"Thou shalt not commit adultery." — Exod. 20. 14. 

104. What is the eighth commandment? 
"Thou shalt not steal."— Exod. 20. 15. 

105. What is the ninth commandment? 

"Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neigh- 
bor." — Exod. 20. 16. 

106. What is the tenth commandment? 

"Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house, thou 



THE JUNIOR CATECHISM 305 

shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his man- 
servant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his 
ass, nor anything that is thy neighbor's." — Exod. 20. 
17. 

107. What commandments of Christ include all these 

duties ? 
Jesus said, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with 
all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy 
mind. This is the first and great commandment. 
And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy 
neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments 
hang all the law and the prophets." — Matt. 22. 37-40. 

108. What words of Jesus are called "The Golden Rule"? 
"Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do 

ye even so to them/' — Matt. 7. 12. 

VII. DIRECTIONS FOR THE CHRISTIAN LIFE 

100. How may we begin the Christian life? 

By listening to the voice of God, repenting of our 

sins, and trusting Jesus as our Saviour. 
What must I do to be saved? And they said, Believe 
on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved. 
— Acts 16. 30, 31. 

no. What is it to repent? 

It is to be sorry for our sins, to forsake them all, and 

to turn to God. 
Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous 

man his thoughts: and let him return unto the 

Lord, and he will have mercy upon him. — Isa. 

55. 7- 

1 11. What is it to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ? 

It is to accept Jesus, and to trust Him as our Saviour. 



306 SERVICE AND PRAYERS 

As many as received him, to them gave he power to 
become the sons of God, even to them that be- 
lieve on his name. — John i. 12. 

(Rom. 10. 9.) 

112. Will God accept us if we trust in Jesus? 

He will; for he has promised to accept us, and his 

promise cannot fail. 
3?or whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord 

shall be saved. — Rom. 10. 13. 
(Matt. 11. 29.) 

113. What change takes place in us when God accepts us? 
God gives us a new heart, so that we love him, and 

gladly obey him. 
A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit 
will I put within you. — Ezek. 36. 26. 

T14. Is it our duty to confess Christ? 

Yes ; we are required to confess him. 
Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, 
him will I confess also before my Father which is 
in heaven. — Matt. 10. 32. 

315. How can we confess Christ? 

By uniting with his Church, and by witnessing for him 

in word and life. 
(Matt. 5. 16; Rom. 10. 9, 10.) 
116 What vow do we take when we unite with the Church? 
We take the vow of repentance, faith, and obedience 
contained in the Baptismal Covenant. 

1 17. How may we continue in God's favor and grow in the 

likeness of Christ? 
By the study of God's word, by daily prayer, and by 

a life of service for Christ. 
The life which I now live in the flesh I live by the 



THE JUNIOR CATECHISM 307 

faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave 
himself for me. — Gal. 2. 20. 

118. What is the final reward of the Christian life? 

"Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a 
crown of life." — Rev. 2. 10. 



BENEDICTIONS 

THE grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love 
of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, 
be with us all, evermore. Amen. 

— Easter Liturgy, Book of Common Prayer, A. D. 1559. 

'TpHE peace of God which passeth all understanding, 
■*■ keep our hearts and minds in the knowledge and 
love of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, 
and the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the 
Son, and the Holy Spirit, be amongst us and remain 

with US always. Amen. —Book of Common Prayer, A. D. 1540. 

THE God of Peace, who brought again from the 
dead our Lord Jesus Christ, the great Shepherd 
of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting 
covenant, make us perfect in every good work to do 
his will, working in us that which is well pleasing in 
his sight; through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory 
forever and ever. Amen. 

THE Lord of Peace himself give you peace at all 
times in all ways. Amen. . 

NOW unto Him that is able to keep us from falling, 
and to present us faultless before the presence 
of his glory with exceeding joy; to the only wise God 
our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and 
power, both now and for evermore. Amen. 

UNTO God's gracious mercy and protection we 
commit ourselves. The Lord bless us and keep 
us. The Lord make his face to shine upon us and 
be gracious unto us. The Lord lift up the light of 
his countenance upon us, and give us peace, both now 

and evermore. Amen. — The Aaronic Blessing. 

308 



BENEDICTIONS 309 

MAY our Lord Jesus Christ be near us to defend 
us, within us to refresh us, around us to pre- 
serve us, before us to guide us, behind us to justify 
us, above us to bless us. Who liveth and reigneth 
with the Father and the Holy Spirit, God for ever- 
more. Amen. —Tenth Century. 

gtecrtptton 

NOW unto Him that loved us, and washed us from 
our sins in his own blood, and hath made us kings 
and priests unto God and his Father, to him be glory 
and dominion; forever and ever. Amen. 

— Saint John, A. D. go. 



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